Platelet rich plasma treatment of superficial digital flexor tendon lesions in racing Thoroughbreds

Abstract

The main goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a modified method for preparing platelet rich plasma for the treatment of superficial digital flexor tendon lesions in race horses and its influence on the future recuperation of the animals. The applied concentrate of plasma was prepared by centrifugation followed by aspiration close above the buffy coat. There were no negative reactions resulting from the application of the biological material into the damaged tendons. The success of the therapy was proven by the shortened rehabilitation time and the higher number of horses returning to racing.

Keywords

• tendonitis
• growth factors
• racing carriers
• ultrasonographic examination