A few weeks ago, we discussed canine hip dysplasia and how VetStem Cell Therapy can help alleviate symptoms associated with the condition. Another common issue, especially in large breed dogs, is elbow dysplasia. Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia occurs when the three bones of the elbow joint do not fit together perfectly, causing abnormal rubbing which results in pain, lameness, and eventually, arthritic changes.
One of the conditions associated with elbow dysplasia is fragmented coronoid process, or FCP. FCP occurs when one of the bony protrusions in the elbow, known as the coronoid processes, develops a fissure or crack and detaches from the ulna. This results in pain, inflammation, decreased mobility, and swelling. Fortunately, as we know, stem cells have the ability to reduce pain and inflammation, heal damaged joint tissues, and thereby improve quality of life.
One pup, Lucky, was only six months old when he began showing signs of discomfort and lameness. He began limping and struggled to get up from lying down. After a visit to the vet, Lucky was diagnosed with elbow dysplasia and broken bone fragments in his elbows as a result of FCP.
The standard treatment for FCP is surgical removal of the bone fragments and abnormal cartilage. In Lucky’s case, his veterinarian recommended surgery in addition to VetStem Cell Therapy. Though surgery can provide some relief and joint stability to patients with FCP, most dogs will still develop some degree of arthritis. When used in conjunction with surgery, stem cells are intended to help slow the progression of arthritis and also help with post-surgical healing.
After treatment, his owner reported a dramatic improvement, noting a significant reduction in pain and a noticeable increase in Lucky’s activity level. Within six weeks, Lucky was jumping on the couch – something he had never done before, and three months later, he was happily playing at the dog park. His owner said, “Lucky was finally able to just be a puppy! Running around at the dog park with other dogs and his older brother Sunny, you can see the smile on his face and his excitement. Since this will be a lifelong condition to manage for Lucky, we are grateful to have stem cells banked for future treatments, to help him live a full life as long as possible, given his young age when this happened.”
To ensure ongoing care for his elbows and other joints, several doses of Lucky’s stem cells were stored in cryopreservation. This is especially important for dogs like Lucky, who will continue to face the challenges of arthritis as they age. In fact, about a year later, Lucky needed double knee surgery due to a partial tear in his cruciate ligament. Using his banked stem cells, Lucky received treatment for both his elbows and his knees. According to his owner, “His elbows are currently stronger than ever and were able to support him during his double knee recovery!” With these stem cells available for future use, Lucky can continue to lead an active, pain-free life.
If you think your pet may benefit from treatment with VetStem Cell Therapy, contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers near you.

Lucky