Platelet-Rich Plasma for the Treatment of Degenerative Lumbosacral Stenosis: A Study with Retired Working Dogs

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The incidence of degenerative lumbosacral stenosis in dogs has been increasing in the last few years, mainly due to longer life expectancy. Given that degenerative lumbosacral stenosis is due to multifactorial causes, there is no consensus regarding the best treatment strategy. The aim of this study was to subjectively and objectively assess the efficacy of a series of epidural infiltrations of a platelet-rich plasma derivative. Fourteen retired working dogs with this syndrome were infiltrated, and clinical and force platform data were recorded. The results showed a significant clinical and gait improvement during the 90-day period. This treatment strategy seems to be a good alternative to other medical treatments, given that the autologous product is effective and considered innocuous. ABSTRACT: Traditionally, canine degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLS) has been defined as a multifactorial syndrome characterized by lumbosacral pain triggered by the compression of the nerve rootlets of the cauda equina. There is still no consensus on the treatment of this condition, probably because there are a plethora of possible causes. In addition to compression, inflammation is a very important factor in the physiopathology of the disorder. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) consists of an increased concentration of autologous platelets suspended in a small amount of plasma. Platelets are a source of several growth factors. Growth factors were shown to help in wound healing and biological processes, such as chemotaxis, neovascularization and synthesis of extracellular matrix, and growth factors were used to improve soft tissue healing and bone regeneration. PRP also facilitates the restoration of the structural integrity of the affected anatomy. Fourteen dogs diagnosed with DLS were treated with three epidural injections of PRP on days 0, 15 and 45. All dogs showed clinical improvement 3 months after the initial treatment. Gait was also objectively assessed by means of the use of force platform analysis before and after treatment, showing significant improvement. The results show that PRP may provide a good alternative to other nonsurgical treatments, such as prednisolone epidural injection.