Current use of biologic therapies for musculoskeletal disease: A survey of board-certified equine specialists.
Authors: Knott Lindsay E, Fonseca-Martinez B Alexander, O'Connor Annette M, Goodrich Laurie R, McIlwraith C Wayne, Colbath Aimee C
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary Board-certified equine veterinary surgeons and sports medicine specialists are increasingly incorporating biologic therapies into musculoskeletal treatment protocols, yet adoption patterns and clinical applications remain largely undocumented. Knott and colleagues surveyed ACVS and ACVSMR diplomates to establish baseline data on how mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), autologous conditioned serum (ACS), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and autologous protein solution (APS) are being used in contemporary equine practice. The survey revealed substantial variation in deployment of these therapies, with particular differences in clinical indications, preparation methods, and perceived efficacy across the specialist cohort. These findings highlight both the growing mainstream acceptance of biologic interventions and the lack of standardised protocols within the profession, suggesting opportunities for evidence-based refinement of how farriers, physiotherapists, and nutritionists might integrate their interventions alongside veterinary biologic treatments. Understanding current specialist practice provides a foundation for future randomised controlled trials and professional consensus guidelines that could optimise outcomes for horses with soft tissue and joint disease.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Current biologic therapy use varies significantly among board-certified equine practitioners, suggesting ongoing debate about optimal treatment selection
- •Understanding specialist preferences and practices can help inform clinical decisions when considering biologic therapies for musculoskeletal injuries
- •This survey provides insight into which biologic approaches are most commonly adopted in real-world equine practice settings
Key Findings
- •Survey of board-certified equine specialists regarding current clinical use of biologic therapies (MSCs, ACS, PRP, APS) for musculoskeletal disease
- •Documents real-world application patterns and clinical decision-making among ACVS and ACVSMR diplomates
- •Reveals variability in biologic therapy selection and treatment protocols among equine specialists