Platelet-Rich Plasma

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a concentrate of platelet-rich plasma protein derived from whole blood. It is collected from the patient during their appointment, “spun down” in a centrifuge machine to remove the red blood cells, and injected into the region of damage under ultrasound guidance. PRP contains several different growth factors that can stimulate healing of soft tissue and joints.

• When we injury our body, several components- including platelets- migrate to the site of injury. Platelets assist in healing by producing growth factors and other proteins which initiate the body’s natural healing cascade. Unlike prolotherapy, the growth factor response with PRP is much more robust.

• A PRP injection with ultrasound guidance places these healing agents exactly where they need to be to be most successful. PRP is effective in producing a healing response in several conditions which include, but are not limited to:

• Rotator Cuff Injuries

• Osteoarthritis

• Medial and Lateral Epicondylitis (Golfer and Tennis Elbow)

• Tendonitis of the Achilles, Bicep and Patellar Tendons

• PRP is a quick and effective procedure. It is performed in our office and takes approximately thirty minutes. The collection of blood and platelet collection take the majority of time. Numbing the skin with lidocaine and injecting the PRP under ultrasound guidance take less than five minutes. Given its mechanism of action, it’s normal for the results of PRP to take several weeks to reach their full effect. It’s recommended to avoid anti-inflammatory medications- such as Aspirin, Advil, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Naproxen, and Mobic- for one week prior to, and at least two weeks after the procedure. Those with cardiovascular conditions may continue Aspirin 81 mg daily.