Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

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Platelet-rich plasma consists of two elements: plasma, or the liquid portion of blood, and platelet, a type of blood cell that plays an important role in healing throughout the body. Platelets are well-known for their clotting abilities, but they also contain growth factors that can trigger cell reproduction and stimulate tissue regeneration or healing in the treated area. Platelet-rich plasma is simply blood that contains more platelets than normal. 

  Platelet Rich Plasma works in several ways: 

• Release of Growth Factors: Platelets contain alpha granules that store essential growth factors. Upon activation, they release:
  • Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF): Promotes cellular proliferation and recruits reparative cells.
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF): Stimulates new blood vessel formation, improving oxygen and nutrient delivery.
  • Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-β): Aids in tissue remodeling and reduces fibrotic scarring.
• Stimulation of Stem Cells: PRP signals mesenchymal stem cells and progenitor cells to migrate to the site of injury. These cells differentiate into specific tissue types, aiding the regeneration of ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and skin.
• Induction of Collagen Production: Fibroblasts, the cells responsible for creating collagen, are activated. This promotes the repair of connective tissue, improves structural integrity, and supports elasticity in joints and skin.
• Reduction in Inflammatory Markers: PRP injections help modulate the local immune response:
  • Suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β and TNF-α.
  • Promote anti-inflammatory agents like IL-10.
  • This leads to decreased swelling and discomfort without compromising the healing process.
• Enhancement of Angiogenesis: New capillaries form at the treatment site, which improves circulation and sustains long-term tissue health. This is especially critical in tendons and ligaments, which have a limited natural blood supply.
• Acceleration of Tissue Remodeling: PRP helps break down damaged extracellular matrix and promotes the synthesis of new matrix components. This process is vital for transitioning from early healing to full tissue regeneration.

A healthcare professional draws a small amount of blood from the patient.  The collected blood is then placed in a centrifuge and spun at a high rate of speed several times. This  results in a layer of platelet-rich plasma that can contains up to five times the normal concentration of platelets.  The final PRP is then prepared for injection.  A local anesthetic is injected into the treatment area, to minimalized discomfort during the injection. The concentrated PRP is injected into the target area.  Homecarre instructions are given for home physical therapy.  

Patient will need to abstain from NSAIDs and steroids for 6 weeks.  Specific homecare instructions are given to the patient. 

 Please contact the office for pricing.