Successful management of an equine carpal chip fracture by intra-articularly injected adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction after arthroscopic removal

Abstract

Carpal chip fractures are common causes of lameness in racehorses. Due to disadvantages in surgical management, adjuvant treatment modalities are usually necessary. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have the potential to differentiate into other cell types including bone and cartilage cells. Adipose-derived stromal vascular fraction (SVF) is produced during ADSCs isolation from adipose tissue. The purpose of this report was to present the successful management of a grade III chip fracture in the right carpus of a 5-year-old Thoroughbred gelding by intra-articularly injected autologous SVF one month after the arthroscopic removal of the fracture. This treatment resulted in lameness improvement and short rehabilitation period to previous racing activities. High performance levels and no recurrent injuries were recorded during a twenty month follow-up period.