Cartilage Therapy and Repair in Equine Athletes

The status of articular cartilage often defines the level, progression, and subsequent prognosis of joint disease in both human and equine athletes. Although methods to diagnose equine cartilage defects have significantly improved over the past decade, articular cartilage damage and ensuing osteoarthritis remain a challenge to treat. The following 2 categories of surgical options for cartilage repair in the horse are typically considered: palliative and reparative or restorative. Palliative surgical care consists of arthroscopic debridement and lavage, whereas reparative options involve the use of marrow stimulation techniques.

Source: Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics - June 12, 2016 Category: Orthopaedics Authors: Sherry A. Johnson, David D. Frisbie Source Type: research