BIOLOGICS
What is PRP?
PRP or Platelet Rich Plasma is produced from your own blood. A certain type of cell, called platelets, circulates through your body and is very important to allow blood to clot properly. These platelets and the liquid plasma found in blood have many factors needed for cell regeneration. Also, these factors help in cells multiplying and distinguishing them as a certain type of cell (specialization). These processes are all required for normal healing.
During a PRP treatment, a small amount of blood is taken (usually from the front of your elbow like a typical blood draw) from the patient and placed in a centrifuge. This is a specialized machine that spins the blood at such a speed that it separates the blood into its different components. The Platelet Rich Plasma component is then drawn off and injected into the area needing treatment.
IS PRP RIGHT FOR ME?
PRP is used on various targets in the body with various goals in mind. Although used as cosmetic face injections and to aid in hair growth, the majority of PRP use is for soft tissue orthopaedic problems. Initial studies in animal models showed improved healing in both soft tissues and bone.
Studies in humans have found PRP to be the most effective in soft tissue chronic tendon type problems such as Achilles tendinosis, and plantar fasciitis. Benefits can include decreased pain, decrease in swelling and quicker recovery time for some. The evidence for PRP is still evolving. It is being studied extensively around the world to find out the best techniques to be used and which problems it can help the most.
Overall, studies looking at these and other problems ranging from rotator cuff tendinopathy to knee OA, Tennis elbow and Medial collateral ligament injuries in the knee involve fairly small groups of patients to its hard to get a firm answer on how much and in whom PRP will help.
In clinical studies, the evidence is varied but, because PRP is from your own blood, it is considered relatively low risk and may have great potential to improve or speed your healing.
For some conditions such as achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, sesamoiditis, and AVN (avascular necrosis), the surgical options are not always straightforward and its best if they can be left as the very last resort. It may be a prolonged recovery, higher risk of complications or a higher likelihood of incomplete relief, so in these situations, a low risk alternative such as PRP may be worth trying to avoid or put off surgery.
Following certain surgical procedures, PRP may help speed your recovery. If you have had a cartilage procedure or a tendon repair procedure, some studies suggest a post operative injection of PRP in the first few weeks may help speed up your recovery and improve the quality of your tissue healing.
The specialized equipment required to perform PRP is not covered by MSP so there is a cost to the patient for this type of procedure.
Talk to Dr. Roberts to see if PRP may be right for you and your problem.