Effect of topical application of 1% diclofenac sodium liposomal cream on inflammation in healthy horses undergoing intravenous regional limb perfusion with amikacin sulfate.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether topical application of 1% diclofenac sodium cream would decrease inflammation at sites of IV regional limb perfusion (IVRLP) in healthy horses.


METHODS
6 healthy adult horses (12 forelimbs).


METHODS
Bilateral IVRLP with 2.5 g of amikacin sulfate was performed twice in each horse, with 24 hours between each session. Horses were treated with topical 1% diclofenac liposomal cream (treated limbs) or a placebo cream (control limbs). All injection sites were evaluated before the first IVRLP session and 24 hours after the second session by means of ultrasonographic examination by a trained ultrasonographer who was unaware of the treatment received. Circumferential measurements and subjective visible inflammation scores were recorded by a veterinarian who was also unaware of treatment received.


RESULTS
After IVRLP, control limbs had a significantly greater increase in subcutaneous thickness, compared with treated limbs. Ultrasonographic and visual assessment scores were significantly higher in control versus treated limbs. The mean change in limb circumference was greater, but not significantly so, in control limbs, compared with treated limbs.


CONCLUSIONS
Topical application of 1% diclofenac sodium liposomal cream to sites of IVRLP in healthy horses decreased inflammation as judged by visual assessment and ultrasonography. Decreased inflammation may allow extended use of IVRLP and may result in a reduction in pain in treated horses.
Levine
David G
DG
Department of Clinical Sciences, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, PA 19348, USA. dglevine@vet.upenn.edu
Epstein
Kira L
KL
Neelis
Dana A
DA
Ross
Michael W
MW
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000583:Amikacin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000818:Animals; D004008:Diclofenac / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004304:Dosage Forms; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006736:Horses; D007249:Inflammation / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D007275:Injections, Intravenous
D004304:Dosage Forms; D004008:Diclofenac; D000583:Amikacin