David W. Ramey, DVM, discusses a recent retrospective study on how horses affected with various conditions of the stifle fare after surgery. The research reveals that common post-operative therapies do not make any difference in whether the studied horses returned to their previous level of performance. Here is a list of the postoperative therapies used:
- intra-articular stem cells;
- intra-articular corticosteroids;
- intra-articular interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein (IRAP);
- intra-articular hyaluronan/polysulfated glycosaminoglycans;
- systemic NSAIDs;
- systemic hyaluronic acid/polysulfated glycosaminoglycans; and
- oral joint supplements.
Source: Veterinary Practice News, October 23, 2019. Link.
While some owners may be eager to do “everything they can” to help a horse have its best chance of returning to function, ethical practice would mandate owners be told current therapeutic options appear to add little to the chance for a complete recovery from stifle surgery. There is no reason to add financial insult to equine injury.” – David W. Ramey, DVM