Regenerative Therapies for the Treatment of Tenodesmic Injuries in Horses

Abstract Musculoskeletal disease is one of the primary causes of wastage in the equine industry. Tendons and ligaments are the most affected soft tissues in horses and also have the greatest clinical and economic relevance. Despite recent advances in the detection and management of tenodesmic injuries in horses, the incidence of these soft tissue lesions remains high. Meanwhile, the etiology of tenodesmic injuries continues as a subject of research. In recent years, the development of improved diagnosis skills and new treatment options has increased. However, one of the main factors related to the adequate clinical evolution of tenodesmic injuries in horses remains the choice of the treatment. A controlled exercise program in combination with medical treatment is a common therapy for tenodesmic injuries. Improved knowledge regarding the molecular pathophysiological mechanisms of tenodesmic injuries has allowed the development of novel therapeutic regenerative strategies for these pathologies in horses. The basic and clinical results of regenerative treatments such as stem cells, platelet-rich plasma, and bone marrow aspirates are analyzed alongside their respective limitations in this review.