Joint disease/osteoarthritis is characterized by inflammation within the joint that leads to the production of large quantities of inflammatory enzymes that cause further damage. Often the process of joint disease is characterized by inflammation of the joint capsule followed by progressive destruction of the articular cartilage. These pro-inflammatory enzymes actually delay the bodies own natural healing response.

There are a number of therapies used to treat the early stages of osteoarthritis, including: ice therapy, oral bute, Pentosan/Cartrophen injections, hyaluronic acid injections and intra-articular corticosteroids. These therapies have been used with success in the management of equine joint disease. In some cases though these therapies do not have the desired response and effect and your horse may not return to normal athletic function.

IRAP is a system developed in Europe that stimulates the horse's own white blood cells to produce anti-inflammatory mediators and enzymes to reduce the inflammatory phase of joint disease. Blood is taken from the jugular vein and incubated for 24 hours in special syringes that contain glass beads, which induce the white blood cells to produce and secrete therapeutic proteins during the incubation period. After 24 hours the blood is centrifuged and all red blood cells removed. This leaves a protein rich serum which is then split into individual doses ready for injection into the diseased joint. Typically each collection produces enough serum for between 5-7 injections. It is important to note that the injections are only suitable to treat the horse from which the original blood was collected.

The finished product contains proteins called cytokines that act to reduce the inflammation within the joint and stimulate a regenerative response by the cartilage cells, through a process of cell division and increased cell recruitment. There are a number of other anti-inflammatory proteins produced during the incubation process which work synergistically with the cytokines.

What sets this therapy apart from previous options is that it contains a regenerative component that promotes healing, as well as the anti-inflammatory component that we have seen before.

This regenerative response is a new addition to our therapeutic ability to manage joint disease, unseen with other therapies.

Why use IRAP?

This product is 100% body own, with the process stimulating the body’s cells to produce an increased number of the cytokines and associated proteins. IRAP is different from other products as it treats the cause of joint disease and the site of action is aimed at restoring joint lining and cartilage function.

Studies performed at Colorado State University show that treated horses have reduced lameness, improved joint histology (cellular make up) and a tendency for cartilage preservation.

If you have any questions regarding IRAP therapy or would like any further information, please feel free to call us at any time and talk to one of our equine veterinarians on 6241 8888.