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The Spine and Joint Center
What Is Platelets Rich Plasma (PRP)?
The Spine and Joint Center
. http://www.ortho.net/

What Is Platelets Rich Plasma (PRP)?

Platelets Rich Plasma (PRP) is an effective nonsurgical outpatient procedure administered by an experienced orthopedic surgeon using donated blood plasma from the patient, and injected under an ultrasound guided technology with no complications or side effects.

PRP is the concentration of platelets derived from the plasma portion of one's own blood. While platelets are widely known to play a large role in clotting processes, their use in treatment of tendon disease is due to their abundance of enzymes and growth factors related to the healing process. Tendons and cartilage have a poor blood supply, meaning it is difficult for these tissues to receive the nutrients needed to stimulate repair.

An injection of PRP to the injured site provides the tendon tissue with healing growth factors that are otherwise difficult for the body to deliver because of the poor blood supply. Similar mechanisms are now applied to treatment of ligament injuries such as medial collateral ligament sprains of the knee and/or cartilage deterioration, such as osteoarthritis of the knee.

The injection can also restart a healing inflammatory process, which is why patients are often given initial activity restrictions. Subsequent referrals to physical therapy are often made so that patients may be taught to load the tissue in an appropriate fashion to rebuild strength and flexibility.

PRP Procedures that are currently available include

Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow,

Achilles tendinosis and planter fasciitis

Rotator cuff tendinosis, and tear

Osteoarthritis of the knee, and hip joints

A study by researchers from the Hospital for Special Surgery has shown that PRP holds great promise for treating patients with knee osteoarthritis. The treatment improved pain and function, and in up to 73% of patients, appeared to delay the progression of osteoarthritis, which is a progressive disease.

What Is Involved In

the PRP Procedure?

PRP begins by collecting blood from the individual, usually by using a syringe and needle at the arm, similar to a clinic laboratory blood draw. The amount of blood needed is determined by the size of the area to be treated and the concentration of platelets desired. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge where the rapid spinning process separates the blood into three components the plasma or water portion of the blood, the PRP layer, and the cellular layer containing red and white blood cells. The PRP layer is then available for use in the clinic. After applying a local anesthetic (numbing medicine) to the site of the injection, the PRP is injected into the injured tissue. The physician may view the area under ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement of the injection.

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