Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy & PRP

(Platelet Rich Plasma)

Southwater Vets is pleased to offer both arthroscopy and Platelet Rich Plasma to dogs.

Arthroscopy is primarily used for diagnostically and therapeutically in the younger dog forelimb lameness. Elbow and shoulder dysplasia is a common condition of young dogs (often labradors and spaniels), often undetectable on routine radiography. Usually preceded by CT imaging, various painful, lameness inducing conditions of the elbow and shoulder can be arthroscopically resolved or improved. The most common indication is elbow medial coronoid disease and fragmented coronoid process (FCP).

Via 2 very small medial access ports (3-5mm) sclerotic articular cartilage can be addressed and any FCP material can be removed. Recovery (and a hopeful improvement / resolution of lameness) is within 2-4 weeks. PRP is often administered at the conclusion of the surgery

Platelet Rich Plasma is derived from the dogs own blood to create a small highly concentrated solution dense in platelets. This is injected intra-articuarly to stimulate growth and repair of tissues via the release of growth factors and cytokines.

Indications are not only limited to young patients undergoing arthroscopy. Older patients, with arthritic joints, especially ones intolerant to routine pharmaceutical analgesia benefit from PRP. It if often injected twice at a 2-week interval and provides 8-10 months of improved pain management. It can also be combined with stem cell injections acquired from the dog (femoral bone marrow) or externally supplied. Soft tissue and tendon/muscle injuries will also benefit.