References
Stem cells in canine osteoarthritis. Part 2: case selection, choices, guidelines and outcomes
Abstract
This article, part 2 of a 3-part series covering the use of stem cells in canine osteoarthritis, discusses case selection, intra-articular therapies, guidelines for joint injections and clinical metrology in the use of regenerative therapy techniques for osteoarthritis in dogs. Osteoarthritis is a prevalent condition in dogs, and can have a negative effect on quality of life. It is a chronic condition which requires long-term management, and stem cells are a potential method of improving quality of life in affected animals.
Osteoarthritis is frequently seen in veterinary clinics, affecting up to 20% of dogs in the UK (based on referral data). In order to reduce the negative effects that this chronic condition can have on affected dogs, research into using stem cells to benefit these animals is ongoing. The various ways that stem cell therapy can be applied to help these dogs are discussed in this article, which is part 2 of a 3-part series around the use of stem cells in canine osteoarthritis.
In practice, the most common uses of stem cell therapy in dogs are:
Appropriate diagnostic techniques should be performed, and may include:
Training in the following modalities would be recommended:
Patients are selected according to several criteria, and different clinicians will prefer one selection process over another. A ‘candidacy check’ process to determine suitability for treatment and maximise the potential for a successful outcome includes the study of previous clinical history, a specific series of owner-submitted videos of the patient and an in-depth consultation, as well as owner-derived osteoarthritis and quality of life scores.
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