The University of Tennessee Center of Veterinary Medicine (UTCVM) has recently embarked on two groundbreaking studies exploring the potential of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for veterinary patients. This innovative treatment, which has shown promise in both human and veterinary medicine, uses the body’s own healing properties to accelerate recovery and improve outcomes for a variety of conditions. Their team will be focusing on the possible benefits of utilizing platelet-rich plasma for TPLOs and in Radius and Ulna fractures. More information on both of these studies can be found below. Contact our team if you are interested in learning more about Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy in the veterinary practice!

Platelet-Rich Plasma in Dogs Undergoing TPLO Surgery

Purpose of the Study: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a novel treatment for inflammation secondary to. degenerative disorders, including cranial cruciate ligament disease and resultant osteoarthritis. It is unknown if the immediate administration of PRP following surgery aids in recovery by reducing inflammation, or if it is more beneficial to administer PRP by waiting until acute post-surgical inflammation resolves. In this study, we will objectively assess the effects of immediate or delayed PRP administration on inflammation and lameness in client-owned dogs undergoing tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament instability.

Study procedure: Dogs will be randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups: Control (TPLO, no PRP), Immediate PRP at time of TPLO, delayed PRP administered 4 weeks after TPLO. Recheck examinations will be performed every 2 weeks for 8 weeks, at which time synovial fluid samples and clinical evaluation will be performed.

For complete study information, click here

Platelet-Rich Plasma in Radius and Ulna Fractures

Purpose of the study: The primary aim of the study is to assess the effect of platelet rich plasma (PRP) in fracture healing. PRP has many growth factors that stimulate healing. We will assess the effect of immediate PRP and delayed application of PRP in dogs with naturally occurring radius and ulna fractures.

Study procedure: Dogs will be randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups: Control (standard surgical repair), PRP immediately applied to the fracture site after repair, delayed PRP administered 2 weeks after surgery. Recheck examinations will be performed every 2 weeks for 8 weeks.

For complete study information, click here.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Greg Woo, DVM
Josh Burnette, DVM
Darryl Millis, DVM, MS, DACVS, DACVSMR, CCRP
Jessica Montoya, AAS, LVMT, CCRP, VTS-Surgery
utvetortho@utk.edu | 865-974-8387
Interested in learning more about PRP and this university study? Complete the short form below and we will provide more information!