Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy; Fast & Safe. Does it work?
Platelet-rich plasma application (PRP), which has gained popularity in recent years, is well-deserved due to its usage in aesthetics and sports medicine injuries. It is widely discussed in the media for its use and efficacy in aesthetic issues such as skin wrinkles caused by aging, facial and body scars, and hair loss.
However, PRP has been used for at least 30 years. Though this procedure, which was originally employed for cardiovascular surgery, is gaining popularity for its usage in aesthetics, it is also effective in a variety of other applications. PRP treatments are especially effective in tendon and ligament injuries, as well as some osteoarthritis patients.
Platelet Rich Plasma Application
The core of this are the ”thrombocytes” which are the smallest cells in volume that ensure blood clotting. They ensure wound healing with growth factors it contains. Benefiting from these properties of Platelets they are used in medicine for scar and skin recovery
In Platelet Rich Plasma technique, the blood of the patient is centrifuged and the Platelet Rich Plasma is obtained. This blood sample has after processing much more platelet and growth factor with other positive factors than in normal conditions. The quality of the different systems is determined by the multiplying factor they provide (4x, 6x 8x) versus the concentration in the body (1x).
It was shown in many experiments that especially in tendon and ligament injuries lead to successful results. The healing process of tendon injuries often is very long and troublesome.
The wound healing process of the PRP application is done by increasing of extracellular liquid, expression of the collagen gene and by stimulating the angiogenesis.
The growth factors it contains include platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), fibroblastic growth factor (FGF), and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). (fig.1).
In addition to these growth factors, osteocalcin, osteonectin, fibrinogen, vitronectin, fibronectin, and thrombospondin-1 are also present in platelets and are released from alfa-granules during platelet activation. For skin and cartilage restoration required collagen synthesis and the production of extracellular fluids are also controlled by these proteins.
The success of PRP is, of course, dependent on a variety of circumstances. The clearest is that the age of the patient is highly important. Growth factors, which begin to decline with age, are particularly important in recovery.
It is critical that the application gets done properly. Some practitioners ought to pinpoint the specific location of the affected area with the help of
ultrasonic imaging with the injection. Experienced orthopaedic surgeons are very known for all locations of the musculoskeletal system, providing high degree of security in any location.
Aren’t there any disadvantages or side effects?
Yes, there are no known adverse effects. The trick is to use the patient’s own blood for regeneration. This eliminated the possibility of allergic reactions. As a natural effect of the quicker recuperation, swellings and pain from inflammation may occur for a few days after treatment.
With todays modern technology, the application can be completed in as little as 20-30 minutes. We Experts believe that this treatment method will continue to expand because it is simple to use, has no side effects, and, most importantly, gives a spectacular boost in tissue recovery.
Dr. Hans-J. Poessel
References:
Core: Anitua E, Andia I, Sanchez M, Azofra J, del Mar Zalduendo M, et al.
Autologous preparations rich in growth factors promote proliferation and induce VEGF and HGF production by human tendon cells in culture.
J Orthop Res 2005; 23:281-286.
If you are suffering from any for the named condition and can’t get rid of the pains and the problems, I recommend that you see Dr. Hans-J. Poessel. Dr. Poessel is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 32 years of experience in the field. He specializes in the treatment of plama and PRP and has a proven track record of success.
Dr. Poessel will carefully evaluate your injury and develop a personalized treatment plan that is right for you. He will use the latest techniques and technologies to ensure that you receive the best possible care.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Poessel, please call his office.
Book an appointment with Dr. Poessel today!
I hope this blog post has been helpful. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.