When tissue is damages platelets are among the first cells attracted to the area. Platelets become sticky in the presence of tissue damage or damage to blood vessels. Once platelets stick they release chemicals that support tissue regeneration. These factors are listed below:
- platelet-derived growth factor
- transforming growth factor beta
- fibroblast growth factor
- insulin-like growth factor 1
- insulin-like growth factor 2
- vascular endothelial growth factor
- epidermal growth factor
- Interleukin 8
- keratinocyte growth factor
- connective tissue growth factor
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is created by collecting a blood sample from your pet into a specially prepared tube then using a special centrifuge to concentrate the platelets.
The platelets may then be stimulated to de-granulate with the use of chemicals.
The PRP is then injected into areas needing regeneration. This might be into an arthritic joint, or a joint undergoing surgery, into a ligament or just IV.
PRP may be used along with Stem Cell Therapy to promote stem cell activity.
Addressing painful Joints with PRP, IRAP, and Stem Cell Therapy at Safari
PRP, IRAP, and Stem Cell Therapy are three all-natural tools Safari uses to help alleviate conditions such as arthritis in your pet. These treatments begin with a sample of your pet’s blood to naturally combat joint inflammation and arthritis and are capable of slowing cartilage destruction and improving mobility.
PRP for Pets
PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, is a concentration of platelet cells harvested from your pet’s own blood which are then activated. Platelets are one of the first cells to arrive at the site of an injury and coordinate the inflammation and repair process. Once activated, platelets release growth factors used in this repair process. PRP not only reduces inflammation, it slows and repairs damage to cartilage and improves blood supply to the area to speed up healing.
PRP is a less costly way to treat your pet’s inflamed joints than IRAP or stem cell therapy, yet still provides a quick-acting method of increased healing to the damaged area.
IRAP
IRAP, or Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein, is a natural anti-inflammatory protein released by white blood cells at the site of injury. It is considered a master regulator of inflammation and is therefore effective in treating conditions like arthritis which can lead to lameness, decreased range-of-motion, and pain.
In order to amass more of these IRAP proteins, we take a sample of your pet’s blood and separate the IRAP serum which can then be injected into arthritic joints. This serum also contains growth factors which add additional anti-inflammatory abilities. This IRAP serum can substantially reduce inflammation, decrease lameness, and relieve your pet’s pain when injected into the afflicted joints. IRAP treatments can provide pain relief for 1 year or more.
To obtain IRAP serum, the pet’s blood is collected and incubated in the tube pictured. Specialized glass beads are used to stimulate the white blood cells into producing the needed IRAP molecules and other growth factors. This process takes between 6 and 9 hours. The sample is then centrifuged to separate out the serum, which at this point can be injected into the affected joint the same day the blood is taken.
Think of IRAP as next-level effectiveness than PRP in terms of healing, reduction of inflammation, and in lasting effects. IRAP is more costly than PRP and about the same cost as stem cell therapy. Our doctors can help you decide if IRAP is the optimal solution to your pet’s painful joints.
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cells can be directed to repair cartilage, bone, muscle, and many other types of tissue if placed into damaged areas of these tissues. By giving additional stem cells to your pet’s joints we are sending in additional troops to help support the existing stem cell army regrow tissue cells and repair damage.
When tissue is damaged, there is a release of chemicals that signal the repair process to begin. The purpose of this signal is to attract healing cells to the area of injury and direct these healing cells to reduce inflammation, regenerate tissue, or whatever is needed. In all cases these healing cells are stem cells.
The use of stem cells in place of PRP or IRAP treatments will provide the joint with longer lasting help. When injected directly into the pet’s joint, stem cells are “corralled” where they are most needed. They continuously secrete growth factors, reduce inflammation, modulate the immune system, and regenerate injured tissue for up to 6 months.
Stem cells are the “Cadillac” of joint treatments, with results seen in just a few months. They are about the same cost as IRAP.
Your pet doesn’t need to suffer any longer. Call Safari today for a PRP, IRAP, or stem cell consultation. Safari Veterinary Care Centers 281-332-5612.
