A new treatment for chronic arthritis in dogs

Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) infusion is a procedure that has great promise for chronic arthritis and non-healing wounds in dogs.  Basically, with a special syringe, the veterinarian draws blood from your dog, spins it down in a specific centrifuge which separates the platelets from the rest of the blood sample, and then injects the blood platelets directly into the affected joint(s).  

To see if this procedure is right for your dog, call us at 913-649-0440.  Our doctors would be happy to discuss the pros and cons of this cutting edge treatment with you.

Medical advances in human medicine have now been applied to our canine companions. 

Blood platelets perform 3 functions that are important to this discussion, that are similar to stem cells.  

·         Platelets play a role in the control of inflammation

·         Platelets are responsible for bringing the white blood cells to the injured area to clean up the remains of the dead and injured cells

·         Most importantly to this procedure, platelets release growth factors that are directly responsible for tissue regeneration. 

This procedure, performed under sedation, has the potential for minimizing or actually controlling arthritic symptoms for up to 6 months. It must be performed twice initially, 10 – 14 days apart.  It involves just a one day stay…pet arrives between 7-8 am and is able to go home after 3 pm the same day.