PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma and is a treatment that is becoming a more popular option for being a biological booster in healing processes.
PRP is produced from a person’s own blood. Blood is drawn, it is centrifuged and a separation of the different components of the blood results in a fraction that is rich in platelets (this is one type of cell in the blood which circulates through the blood and is critical for blood clotting). The platelets and liquid plasma portion of the blood contain many factors that are essential for cell recruitment, multiplication and specialization which are required for healing.
PRP is given as an injection. It may be given independently or can be done using ultrasound-guidance to assist in precise placement of the PRP in difficult areas or in patients who are well covered with sub-cutaneous tissue. After the injection, the patient should avoid exercise for a short period of time usually approximately a week to ten days prior to beginning rehabilitation.
NSAIDs should also be avoided prior to and for a short period after PRP treatment as it can interfere with the efficacy of the PRP. This can all be done as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia and can be applied to any area of concern.
There are different types of PRP and the patient should be advised on the type that is being used for their treatment along with the pros and cons of its use. The use of PRP has been extended from its original recommendations of chronic tendinitis and injuries to ligaments and muscles to use in osteoarthritis in various joints. It has also been used to assist in regenerative aspects of surface damage to the joint, traumatic or
otherwise.
PRP is an evolving science which is part of the exciting development of stem cell technology being used to treat diseases, trauma and aging conditions. PRP has now filled the gap between repeated corticosteroid injections and intrusive surgical interventions.
If you think you may be a candidate for PRP treatment, come in and chat with us and we can guide you.
For more information on PRP and Hyaluronic injection combo: https://www.faoconline.com/home/blogs/prp-and-hyal...