PRP / Stem Cell Injections

What is it?

Stem cell therapy and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) are regenerative treatments for dogs, often used to manage osteoarthritis, joint injuries, and soft tissue damage. These therapies use the dog's own cells to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and improve mobility.

Understanding the Treatments:

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Created from a sample of your dog’s blood, which is processed to concentrate platelets and growth factors. These are injected into the affected area to stimulate natural tissue repair and lower inflammation. It is often a same-day procedure.
• Stem Cell Therapy: Typically involves harvesting stem cells (often from fat tissue) that can differentiate into various cell types to help rebuild damaged tissue. The cells are often activated or grown in a lab before being injected back into the dog.
• Combined Therapy: Many veterinarians find that combining stem cells with PRP produces more effective outcomes than using PRP alone, as the PRP can provide a supportive environment for the stem cells.

What to Expect:

• Procedure: Both treatments are generally performed under sedation or light anesthesia to ensure the pet is comfortable and the injection is placed accurately.
• Recovery: Most dogs return home the same day. While some experience mild soreness shortly after, many owners notice improvements in mobility and comfort within a few weeks.
• Duration: Benefits can be long-lasting, though they depend on the individual dog and the severity of their condition. Some cases may require repeat treatments or "top-ups" over time

Where: Fitzpatrick Referrals

Whom: Noel Fitzpatrick - MVB DSc(Hon) DUniv CertSAO CertVR DipACVSMR DipECVSMR DSAS(Orth) MRCVS

Introduction to Stem Cell Therapy

Treated by Prof Noel Fitzpatrick at: Fitzpatrick Referrals, Godalming, Surrey

Read more about Stem Cell Therapy for Osetoarthritis here

Where: Macqueen Veterinary Centre, Devizes

Whom: Ian MacQueen