Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy

Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) is a blood plasma that has been enriched with platelets. As a concentrated source of autologous platelets, platelet rich plasma contains, and releases through degranulation, several different growth factors and other cytokines that stimulate the healing of bone and soft tissue.

The efficacy of certain growth factors in healing various injuries and the concentrations of these growth factors found within platelet rich plasma therapy are the theoretical basis for the use of PRP in tissue repair. The platelets collected in PRP are activated by the addition of thrombin and calcium chloride, which induces the release of the mentioned factors from alpha granules. The growth factors and other cytokines present in PRP include: platelet-derived growth factor, transforming growth factor beta, fibroblast growth factor, insulin-like growth factor 1 and 2, vascular endothelial growth factor, epidural growth factor, Interleukin 8, keratinocyte growth factor, and connective tissue growth factor.

Platelet Rich Plasma is produced from a person’s own blood. It is a concentration of one type of cell, known as platelets, which circulate through the blood and are critical for blood clotting. Platelets and the liquid plasma of the blood contain essential factors for the cell recruitment, multiplication and specialization required for healing.

What is Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy?

A blood sample is obtained from a patient, the blood is put into a centrifuge, which separates the blood into its many components. Platelet rich plasma therapy can then be collected and treated before it is delivered to an injured area of bone or soft tissue.

PRP is given to patients through an injection and ultrasound guidance can assist in the precise placement of platelet rich plasma. After the injection, a patient must avoid exercise for a short period of time before beginning a rehabilitation exercise program.

Several studies suggest that platelet rich plasma therapy can improve healing in soft tissue and bone. An increased number of cells and improved tendon strength have been seen in Achilles tendon injuries, and improved muscle regeneration has been shown in calf muscle injuries, for example.

These findings have led to the widespread use of PRP therapy for a variety of conditions, including acute and chronic tendon problems, as well as ligament and muscle injuries.

The most promising results with platelet rich plasma therapy have been for the use of treating chronic tendon injuries, such as tennis elbow and tendonitis of the Achilles. In a small study involving knee osteoarthritis, PRP therapy was shown to be more effective than hyaluronic acid treatment. Platelet rich plasma has also shown positive results in the treatment of rotator cuff tears and MCL injuries in the knee.

Platelet Rich Plasma Things to Remember

Platelet Rich Plasma therapy comes from the patient’s own blood
PRP is a concentrated source of growth factors and cellular signaling factors that play an important role in the healing process
Studies show that PRP therapy may improve healing in many tissues
Few clinical studies show the effectiveness of PRP therapy
Anti-inflammatory medicines should be stopped before and after PRP therapy is given

Who is a candidate for Platelet Rich Plasma?

PRP therapy is advised for patients with moderate osteoarthritis in the hip, knee or shoulder, as well as those with chronic tendonitis in the elbow or ankle. Typically the patient has failed conservative treatment options such as rest, medication, and physical therapy.

Does PRP consist of one or more injections?

The amount of injections is determined on a case-by-case basis. A physician will use the MRI or Ultrasound results to determine the number of injections. Typically a physician will suggest between 1 to 3 injections.

Will there be a follow up?

Yes, the physician will want to see you back to check the progress of healing. You will be asked to make a follow up appointment 6 weeks following the injection.