Effects of a synovial flap and gelatin/β-tricalcium phosphate sponges loaded with mesenchymal stem cells, bone morphogenetic protein-2, and platelet rich plasma on equine osteochondral defects.

The research article deals with the exploration of a new method for treating osteochondral defects in horses. The method involves using a combination of a synovial flap and a special sponge loaded with stem cells, bone protein, and platelet rich plasma.

Objective and Methodology

• The research was carried out with the objective to assess the efficacy of a treatment involving a synovial flap and gelatin and β-tricalcium phosphate (GT) sponge loaded with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and platelet rich plasma (PRP).
• The defects were created on the medial condyle of both femurs in 5 horses. In the test group, a GT sponge loaded with MSCs, BMP-2, and PRP (GT/MSCs/BMP-2/PRP) was inserted into the defect and covered with a synovial flap.
• In the control group, the defect was only treated with the GT sponge loaded with MSCs, BMP-2, and PRP (GT/MSCs/BMP-2/PRP), without a synovial flap.

Findings

• The initial findings highlighted that the test group, which received both the synovial flap and sponge treatment, demonstrated significantly higher macroscopic scores than the control group who only received the sponge treatment.
• Moreover, it was observed that larger areas of hyaline cartilaginous tissue, a smooth, glossy tissue that covers the joint surfaces, were detected in the test group in comparison to the control group. This indicates a better regeneration of the osteochondral region in the test group.

Conclusion

• The study concluded that the combination of the synovial flap and the unique GT sponge loaded with MSCs, BMP-2, and PRP promoted enhanced osteochondral regeneration within an equine model. This potentially presents a promising treatment method for horses suffering from osteochondral injuries or defects.