Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) 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.

Procedure

Your doctor will first draw 10 ml of blood from the large vein in your elbow. The blood will be centrifuged or spun to separate the platelets from other blood components. The entire process takes about 10 minutes. The platelet rich portion of the blood is then extracted.

The injured part of the body is anesthetized with a local anesthetic and PRP is injected into the affected area under ultrasound guidance.

After the procedure

Following the procedure, you can resume your daily routine activities but avoid strenuous activities such as heavy exercise or lifting.

You may experience some pain during the injection which may last for a couple of days. Cold compresses and pain medication may be prescribed for pain relief. Anti-inflammatory medications are to be avoided for up to 48 hours after the injection, as they can affect the platelet function.

Risks and complications are rare but can include infection, nerve or blood vessel injury, scar tissue formation, and calcification at the injection site following a PRP injection.

Call your doctor immediately in case of persistent pain or the development of any adverse reaction after the injection.