In the realm of regenerative medicine, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) has gained significant attention for its potential to accelerate healing and tissue regeneration. PRP is an increasingly popular treatment that utilizes a natural component in our body to promote healing in various orthopedic conditions such as osteoarthritis and tendonopathies. While exciting in its use and application, clinical studies are ongoing regarding its effectiveness and there is often misleading marketing. The following is a basic overview of PRP and how it is derived.
PRP is a factor fold concentration of platelets extracted from the patient’s own blood. Bloods is comprised of various components: red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma and platelets. Platelets are known for their critical role in clotting and wound healing. Platelets are also known to contain numerous growth factors that are released when activated. These growth factors play a pivotal role in stimulating tissue repair and reducing inflammation.
PRP Preparation:
- Blood Collection: A small sample of the patient’s blood is drawn, usually from the arm, using a sterile needle and syringe.
- Centrifugation: The blood sample is placed in a centrifuge, a device that spins rapidly to separate its components based on density.
- Platelet Separation: Centrifugation separates the blood into distinct layers, with platelet-rich plasma collecting at the top layer.
- Plasma Extraction: The PRP layer is carefully extracted, leaving red blood cells behind
- Concentration: The extracted PRP is further concentrated to enhance its platelet and growth factor content.
- Injection: The PRP is now ready for injection into the targeted area.
Common Applications in Orthopedics
- Tendonitis or tendon injury – tennis elbow, patella (jumper’s knee), achilles
- Acute muscle or ligament injury
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Adjunct to surgery
PRP represents the most popular entryway into what has become known as regenerative medicine or orthobiologics. Utilizing a patients own blood and leveraging the body’s innate healing abilities, PRP seeks to treat orthopedic injuries and conditions. Through the process of extracting and concentrating platelets and growth factors, PRP offers a natural solution for enhancing healing and reducing pain. Stay tuned for a future post where we’ll delve into the literature and the specific benefits of PRP in the context of knee osteoarthritis.