Clinical Trial Findings Show Platelet Therapy Can Provide Relief for Dogs with Osteoarthritis
October 16, 2012
Dogs treated with platelet therapy from a unique filter-based process showed significant improvement from osteoarthritis-related pain and lameness according to a new study. Results from the study were revealed at the 39th Veterinary Orthopedic Society (VOS) Meeting in Crested Butte, Colorado.
“This study is the first to provide evidence in support of platelet therapy for canine osteoarthritis,” said Dr. Alicia L. Bertone, DVM, Ph.D, Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (DACVS), Professor and Director of the Comparative Orthopedic Research Laboratory at The Ohio State University, and senior author of the study.
Osteoarthritis, a progressive chronic degenerative joint disease characterized by pain and stiffness in the joints, is a major concern for owners of the more than 72 million dogs in the United States. Approximately one in five adult dogs in the U.S. suffers from osteoarthritis. Common canine treatment methods can range from weight control and exercise to the administration of anti-inflammatory drugs. In an effort to treat the condition rather than just the symptoms, many veterinarians have begun offering alternatives like minimally-invasive cell therapy. Typically offered in conjunction with some of the more traditional methods, cell therapy can help accelerate healing and lead to longer-term relief.
Both centers in the trial (Western University and The Ohio State University) enrolled 10 dogs with radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis, for a total study size of 20 dogs. All dogs were randomized to receive either saline or platelet therapy. The data was convincing because animals who recived saline treatment did not improve, whereas dogs treated with platelet therapy did improve.
The Orthohealing Center is excited that our four-legged friends are deriving similar benefit from platelet therapy that has helped thousands of patients lead pain-free, active lives!