Platelet-rich Plasma Injection
Disclaimer: The following information is intended to be of a general nature only and is not an endorsement of a specific product. Dr Bauze does not perform PRP injections himself, and if you are suitable for PRP injection he will refer you to an appropriate provider.
Orthobiologics are substances naturally found in the body which are used to facilitate and accelerate the healing process of many types of orthopedic injuries and conditions. Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy is an orthobiologic solution for treating arthritis pain as well as ligament or tendon injuries when traditional methods have failed.
When you undergo PRP therapy, a small amount of your own blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to obtain a high concentration of platelets. Platelets are the cells which are found in blood that contain growth factors and a small amount of stem cells. Growth factors play an important role in accelerating the healing of soft tissue injuries. The concentrated platelets are then injected into the treatment area to provide markedly more platelets and growth factors at the injury site. The goal of PRP therapy is to increase the rate of repair and regeneration of tissue so you heal faster.
PRP Therapy is performed in the office under ultrasound guidance and takes less than an hour. Up to 3 injections may be necessary and are usually given 2-4 weeks apart. Patients are also referred to physical therapy to accelerate the rehabilitative process.
Advantages of PRP therapy include:
- Non-surgical so no risks of surgery
- Does not require the use of anesthesia or hospital stays
- Hastens recovery time
- Patient's own blood is used lessening any risk of transmissible diseases or allergies
PRP therapy has been found on both ultrasound and MRI images to show definitive tissue repair confirming the healing process.
Common conditions treated by platelet rich plasma therapy are:
- Chronic tendonitis
- Chronic pain
- Tennis elbow/Golfer's elbow
- Meniscus injury of the knee
- Rotator cuff tendonitis/bursitis
- Arthritic hip/knee/ankle/shoulder conditions
For patients who are looking for a non-pharmaceutical/non-surgical treatment option or for whom traditional medical treatments have failed, Platelet Rich Plasma therapy in conjunction with a physical therapy plan may be a very effective, conservative treatment option.
