Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) Injections

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) Injections

What is Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is blood plasma enriched with platelets. PRP is created using the patient’s own blood which is injected back into the site of injury. PRP is used to release growth factors to stimulate the body’s ability to repair the site of injury and accelerate the healing of tendons and ligaments in the musculoskeletal system.

How is PRP created?

• Blood is withdrawn from the patient into a few tubes
• Patient blood is placed into a centrifuge to separate different components of the blood and to concentrate the platelets.
• The activated platelets are injected back into the patient around the site of injury.

PRP therapy can speed up soft tissue healing for injuries which include:

• Rotator Cuff tears
• Tendonitis
• Tennis Elbow
• Ankle Sprains
• Ligament Sprains
• Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip and shoulder

Many patients also experience a reduction in pain. Two to three injections of PRP are typically required to obtain optimal results and the injections are usually spaced at least three to four weeks apart.

Is PRP for the musculoskeletal system safe? How long is the recovery time?

PRP for the musculoskeletal system is safe. Because PRP contains white blood cells, your body's natural immune defense agents, infection is rare with PRP treatment. Typically, there is little to no downtime associated with the treatment. Some patients may experience light pain in the treatment area of the injection, but this typically disappears after a week.

Who are good candidates for PRP for the musculoskeletal system?

If you are experiencing tendonitis; ankle sprains, ligament sprains; rotator cuff tears; or osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, and shoulder and want to treat these issues with little to no downtime or risk of injury, consider PRP for the musculoskeletal system.

What PRP System is used at The AIM Clinic?

Dr. Chevalier uses special extraction kits, called the "Selphyl® PRFM System," which creates a higher quality PRP.  Selphyl® produces a "fibrin matrix" which allows growth factors to last in tissue for up to 7 days, instead of the 7 hours typical of most PRP injections. As a result, greater potential collagen production, increased vascularization, and tissue regeneration is possible.