Biologic Therapy - FUSION VETERINARY ORTHOPEDICS

Biologic Therapy

Regenerative medicine to keep your pets up and about.

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Biologic Therapy?

Orthobiologic therapy, also known as biologic therapy or regenerative medicine, is a new emerging modality for treating various disease problems in veterinary patients. At Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics, not every case requires surgery. For issues like osteoarthritis flare-ups and tendon or ligament injuries, Dr. David Dycus may recommend biologic therapy. This approach involves using the patient's own cells or blood to create a high concentration of growth factors and anti-inflammatories, which are then injected into areas with poor healing potential.

What Is

Before recommending biologic therapy, Dr. Dycus conducts a comprehensive orthopedic examination and imaging, including radiographs, CT scans, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and/or arthroscopy. The most commonly used biologic therapy at Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics is platelet-rich plasma (PRP). PRP is produced by collecting blood from the patient and processing it in a lab to concentrate the platelets. These platelets contain high levels of growth factors and anti-inflammatories that aid in tissue healing. The PRP is then injected into the damaged tendon or diseased joint using ultrasound guidance, with the pet under brief sedation to minimize discomfort.

PRP injections are typically done on an outpatient basis, allowing pets to go home the same day. A series of 2-3 injections, separated by two-week intervals, is usually recommended. After the injections, the period of rest and relaxation varies depending on the condition but generally lasts about 8-12 weeks. Pets must avoid running, jumping, or playing. In the house, they should move freely but avoid jumping on/off furniture or racing up/downstairs. Leash use is required for outdoor activities, even in a fenced yard. When unsupervised, pets should be confined to a crate or a small section of the house.

Why Rehabilitation?

What Happens After Surgery?

Physical rehabilitation is recommended about a week after the first PRP injection to aid in healing. Rehabilitation sessions, conducted once or twice weekly, along with home exercises, help maintain muscle mass and range of motion, and lead to better outcomes. Rehabilitation also provides a controlled way for pets to stay active while healing. Complications from PRP injections and biologic therapy are rare but can include infection, which is mitigated with antibiotics. Some patients might experience a temporary worsening of symptoms for 24-72 hours post-injection.

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