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Home » Patient Info » Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy

Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP)

Our blood consists of a liquid component known as plasma. It also consists of three main solid components, which are red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets. Platelets play an important role in forming blood clots. They also consist of special proteins, known as growth factors, which help with our body’s healing process. Platelet-rich plasma or PRP is a non-surgical regenerative therapy that uses a high concentration of platelets and plasma to promote regeneration and self-healing in many orthopaedic injuries and conditions.

A normal blood specimen contains only 6% platelets, while platelet-rich plasma contains 94% platelets and 5 to 10 times the concentration of growth factors found in normal blood, thus allowing greater healing properties.

Indications

PRP is a relatively new method of treatment for several orthopaedic conditions such as muscle, ligament and tendon injuries, arthritis and fractures. PRP injections can help alleviate painful symptoms, promote healing and delay joint replacement surgeries.

Procedure

Your doctor will first draw about 10 cc of blood from the large vein in your elbow. The blood is then spun in a centrifuge machine for about 10 to 15 minutes to separate the platelets from the remaining blood components.

The injured part of your body is then anaesthetized with a local anaesthetic. The platelet-rich portion of your blood is then injected into the affected area. In some cases, your doctor may use ultrasound guidance for proper needle placement.

Post-procedural care

It is normal to feel some discomfort at the injection site for a few days after your procedure. You will be prescribed pain medications by your doctor. You may use cold compresses to alleviate any discomfort. You will be instructed to stop any anti-inflammatory medications. You may resume your normal activities, but should avoid any strenuous activities such as heavy lifting or exercise.

Risks and complications

There are very minimal risks associated with PRP injections. Some of the potential risks include

  • Increased pain at the injection site
  • Infection
  • Damage to adjacent nerves or tissues
  • Formation of scar tissue
  • Calcification at the injection site