Abstract

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has been utilized both in animal and human medicine with a growing number of applications. The horse model was reviewed to utilize this therapy in an Atlantic bottle-nose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) that had acquired abnormality to its epaxial musculature and spinal alignment. Neuromuscular electrostimulation physical therapy was utilized in a pilot whale stranding in 1995.¹ This mode of therapy was initiated for short therapy and to confirm lack of muscle activity and response to therapy before and after PRP application. The Power Muscle Stimulator used was the HT329M1 Mini Wireless Digital PMS unit. Blood samples were taken from the individual using aseptic technique. The blood samples were processed using SmartPReP®2APC+® from Harvest Technologies and prepared by Reid and Associates Equine Clinic. The fresh autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) was administered at the muscle sites with the worst anomalies. Antibiotic oral therapy was given prophylactically. The therapy regimen was repeated with frozen PRP. While the therapy did not correct the spinal alignment, it did improve electrostimulation muscular response and activity for this animal. A future recommendation would be to apply this therapy sooner as a preventative measure.

Acknowledgements

Scott Gearhart who sparked the idea for a newer therapy.

* Presenting author

Literature Cited

1.  Bossart GD. Morbillivirus infection: implications for Oceanaria marine mammal stranding programs. In: Proceedings from the IAAAM Annual Conference; 1995.