Use of a 2.5% Cross-Linked Polyacrylamide Hydrogel in the Management of Joint Lameness in a Population of Flat Racing Thoroughbreds: A Pilot Study.

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common disease processes effecting equine athletes, causing up to 60% of all lameness. This prospective longitudinal study reports on the effect of treatment of carpal and metacarpophalangeal joint lameness with 2.5% cross-linked polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAAG). A total of 49 flat-racing Thoroughbreds at a single training facility were included in the study. The results show a significant improvement in lameness grades at weeks 1 (P < .01), 4 (P < .001), 12 (P < .001), and 24 (P < .001) when compared to baseline lameness at week 0. This pilot study suggests that 2.5% cross-linked PAAG is a safe and effective joint treatment for managing joint lameness in Thoroughbred racehorses and warrants further blinded and controlled studies to fully evaluate the efficacy of the 2.5% cross-linked PAAG and its mode of action.