Platelet-rich Plasma Combined With a Sterile 3D Polylactic Acid Scaffold for Postoperative Management of Complete Hoof Wall Resection for Keratoma in Four Horses.

The study investigates the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and a 3D polylactic acid scaffold in treating horses after surgical removal of a keratoma, a non-cancerous tumor that affects horse hooves. The treatment successfully led to the development of healthy tissue and full recovery of the horses.

Understanding Keratoma and Its Treatment

• Keratoma is a non-cancerous tumor that grows within the hoof of a horse, typically between the horn of the hoof and the distal phalanx.
• This condition typically causes lameness in horses, as it affects the normal functioning of the hoof.
• The most effective treatment approach for keratoma is surgical removal. However, this surgery can cause a wound to the hoof, which requires careful post-operative management.

The Role of Platelet-rich Plasma and Polylactic Acid Scaffold

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a substance derived from blood that contains elevated levels of platelets, which can stimulate healing and tissue growth. It has been used in a variety of medical and veterinary applications to promote wound healing.
• In this study, the researchers used PRP combined with a sterile three-dimensional (3D) polylactic acid scaffold.
• The 3D scaffold provided a physical structure to support growth and regeneration of the hoof wall, while the PRP helped to promote cell growth and wound healing.

Research Findings

• The researchers found that the application of PRP on the wound at specific intervals (on the 3rd day and then every three days up to 18 days post-surgery) led to the development of healthy granulation tissue between 6 and 21 days after surgery.
• Additionally, the hoof wall defect that was caused by the surgery was completely filled with fresh hoof wall within 6-8 months post-surgery.
• The researchers monitored the horses and found that all horses successfully returned to their previous levels of activity, demonstrating the effectiveness of the PRP and 3D scaffold in promoting recovery and preventing lameness.
• This novel approach can greatly improve the outcome of horses that undergo surgery for keratoma, by expediting recovery and reducing the risk of lameness.