Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatments


Latest technique may help patients suffering from persistent inflammatory symptoms

Athletes such as Tiger Woods have recently sought out a unique therapy for persistent pain or from an old injury called Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatments. Though its use has been spreading, PRP therapy has its origins in the dental and orthodontic community to aid healing in cancer patients with jaw reconstruction. Now you’ll find PRP treatments used in medical specialties ranging from cardiovascular surgery to orthopaedics.

There is currently an emergence of literature on the beneficial effects of PRP for chronic non-healing tendon injuries and cartilage degeneration – injuries not limited to the athletic world. At Non-Surgical Orthopaedics, we will be one of the first practices in Atlanta to provide this treatment to our patients.

According to Steven Sampson at The Orthobiologic Institute (TOBI) in Santa Monica, Calif., PRP treatments involve the use of highly elevated levels of blood platelets that until a few decades ago were thought to be used by the body only to clot wounds. These same platelets also release many bioactive proteins responsible for attracting macrophages, mesenchymal stem cells, and osteoblasts which not only promotes removal of necrotic (dead) tissue, but also enhances tissue regeneration and healing – in other words, they clean up the dead stuff, scrub the floors and call in the repair crew. These effects, also called growth factors, can dramatically enhance tissue recovery.

The procedure for obtaining the PRPs for treatment actually comes from the patient.  The patient’s own blood is collected and placed into a centrifuge that rotates at high speed. The centrifuge spins so fast that it physically separates the red blood cells from the platelets, which are blood cells that release the aforementioned proteins to help the body heal itself. The platelet-rich portion of this blood (PRP) is then injected directly into the injured area and the treatment is complete.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) suggests you take a few questions to the doctor before considering PRP treatment. They have posted these guidelines:

1. Where will the injection take place? Placement of PRP injection into the area of injury is important for it to be effective

2. What are possible side effects?

3. How many injections will I receive?

4. Will there be any restrictions? (Generally, patients are asked to avoid strenuous activity for a while)

5. Will my insurance cover treatment? (Many insurance companies do not cover treatment)

Though we offer PRP therapies, our patients and doctors will discuss conventional treatments, such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, massage, diet and lifestyle changes before undergoing any program.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *