It has been reported that the finger of a Canadian horseman that was partially bitten off by his horse is growing back due to having undergone a new technique which stimulates regeneration.
A report by CBS 12 News explains that Paul Halpern’s horse bit part of his finger off last spring, although it has since started to grow back after Halpern agreed to undergo a new procedure overseen by Dr. Eugenio Rodriguez. The piece of finger had been severed and was unable to be re-attached.
The technique is based around the use of extracellular matrix (ECM) tissue from animals. In this particular case, Dr. Rodriguez utilized powder made from the bladder of a pig.
The article explains that the bone, skin, and even the fingernail on Halpern’s finger has started to grow back. According to the report, the treatment will only work if it is started in less than seven days since the injury.
"You know, I'm really grateful. I think it's fantastic," Halpern was quoted as saying in the report.
(With files from CBS 12 News)