MLEC SERVICES

Regenerative Medicine

Meadow Lane Equine Clinic is proud to offer several types of regenerative medicine therapy. Regenerative therapies are often the initial treatment of choice for soft tissue and joint conditions. The goal of regenerative medicine is to reduce pain by modulating inflammation and promoting repair and regeneration of damaged tissues. By promoting healing and reducing inflammation, regenerative therapies can optimize healing of soft tissues and slow the progression of chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. Our patients often see better and longer-lasting results following these treatments, compared to injection with steroids or hyaluronic acid. We offer the following regenerative therapies at out clinic:

• IRAP
• PRP
• ProStride
• Referral for stem cell collection and processing

IRAP (Interleukin Receptor Antagonist Protein) therapy is typically used in joints to treat mild to moderate cases of osteoarthritis or synovitis. This therapy works by counteracting the action of inflammatory interleukin proteins that are produced in the joint fluid when the joint is used excessively. These inflammatory interleukin proteins promote cartilage degeneration and the development of osteoarthritis. With IRAP therapy, a blood sample is collected from your horse into a syringe prepared with an agent that stimulates the production of interleukin receptor antagonist proteins. The blood is incubated in this syringe and then centrifuged to separate the blood into a cellular portion and a plasma portion containing the IRAP. The IRAP portion is then collected into several sterile syringes and stored frozen. Typically 3 injections of IRAP are performed 2 weeks apart for optimal results.

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) therapy is the treatment of choice for acute tendon and ligament injuries in the horse and can also be used in joints. Platelets contain growth factors that optimize healing and support the regeneration of tissue that more closely resembles the original injured tissue. This promotes a stronger and more elastic repair, reducing the likelihood of reinjury and improving the horse’s chance of returning to its original athleticism. The sooner the PRP is administered to the injured area, the more effective it is. PRP is processed by collecting a sample of the horse’s blood into a syringe containing an agent that prevents clotting. The blood is then centrifuged, separating it into a cellular portion, and a platelet-rich plasma portion. The PRP contains at least 7x greater concentration of platelets than in the horse’s blood. The PRP is then sterilely injected by ultrasound guidance into the injured area. PRP can be processed within an hour from blood collection and is usually injected the same day.

ProStride therapy contains both IRAP and PRP, making it an extremely versatile and effective therapy. ProStride is utilized to treat both soft tissue and intra-articular conditions. It reduces inflammation, optimizes healing and supports appropriate tissue regeneration. ProStride is produced by collecting a sample of the horse’s blood and processing it through a series of specialized devices using our on-farm centrifuge. The ProStride product is then sterilely injected by ultrasound guidance into the affected soft tissue or joint. It can be processed within 30 minutes of blood collection and is usually injected the same day.