Ultrasound Guided Regenerative Medicine​

IRAP | PRP | Stem Cell Therapy| Pro Stride

In order to ensure a more precise delivery of treatment, Dr. Mitch utilizes high-quality ultrasound images to visualize the anatomical structure to be treated. This optimizes precision of therapy and can be used for tendon, ligament, joint and bone injuries. Based on diagnosis, treatment goals, as well as the long and short term plans for each patient, a determination is made as to whether a traditional modality or a regenerative therapy will suit the particular horse’s needs.

IRAP : Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein

Recently being referred to as autologous conditioned serum.

A Vicious Cycle

Lameness, joint swelling, and stiffness are common signs of cartilage damage within the joint and inflammation of the joint lining (synovitis). This damage and inflammation results in the release of inflammatory mediators such as IL-1 and other cytokines which lead to further cartilage damage, causing a vicious cycle of cartilage and joint damage, resulting in joint inflammation and lameness.​

Blocking Damage and Inflammation

IRAP was developed to counteract the IL-1 that is produced in the traumatized joint and to slow the progression of osteoarthritis by preventing IL-1 from binding to the IL-1 receptors in the joint. Therefore blocking the damage and inflammation caused by IL-1. Dr. Mitch has found IRAP to be extremely successful in cases where conventional therapies have failed, its preferred use being in high motion joints.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

A preparation made from autologous whole blood which is processed in a way that causes platelets and growth factors to concentrate.

Platelets injected into the site of injury release substances that promote healing, stimulate blood vessel formation, recruit endogenous stem cells and control inflammation. While traditionally PRP is thought of as solely for use in tendon and ligament injuries, Dr. Mitch has found it to be highly successful in the treatment of joint disease for those looking for a longer acting modality.

Stem Cell Therapy

This therapy involves gather stem cells from a source, processing it to concentrate the stem cells and injecting it into a lesion.

The stem cells contribute to healing in several ways: by building new tissue, recruiting cells to contribute to healing, and by having an anti-inflammatory effect on the tissue. Dr. Mitch has found this therapy to be successful in treating tendon, ligament, and meniscal injuries as well as joint damage.

Pro-Stride

The combination of PRP and IRAP in a single product that is prepared from autologous whole blood and injected intra-articular.

It reduces pain, delivers naturally occurring anti-inflammatory proteins, is capable of slowing cartilage degradation and improving mobility. If you are interested in learning more, or to consult with Dr. Mitch about which type of regenerative therapy will best suit your horses needs, please contact us.