Platelet rich plasma, or PRP, is composed of blood plasma with an increased concentration of platelets. We thus find a huge reservoir of bioactive proteins, including growth factors, which are essential to initiate and accelerate the repair and regeneration of tissues.
These bioactive proteins initiate the healing of connective tissues, such as tendons and ligaments, promote the creation of new blood vessels and stimulate the healing process.
To prepare the PRP, a small amount of blood is taken from the patient. this blood is then centrifuged and the PRP is extracted. this process increases the concentration of platelets and growth factors by 500%.
When the PRP is injected into the damaged tissue, it stimulates the ligament or tendon by causing an inflammatory reaction that triggers the repair cascade. This results in the development of new mature collagen, it narrows and causes a strengthening of injured tendons or ligaments.
Yes indeed there are various types of PRP. In order to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment, we adapt the composition of the PRP according to your condition. In fact, it is important to consider different elements. Do we intervene in a joint or tendon? Is this an acute or chronic case? etc. We can achieve the desired platelet concentration while altering the leukocyte count. It is obviously impossible to obtain this customization with a home system. We therefore have 4 different PRP systems at the cutting edge of technology.
If you have an injury to a tendon, articulation or ligament and conventional treatments have not worked satisfactorily, the PRP may be the answer. The procedure is less invasive than surgery and helps heal tissue with little or no scar tissue.
During the initial assessment, the sports medicine physician will review your case and determine with you whether the PRP can help you.
If pain persists and you need help, our multidisciplinary team will be able to get you back on track quickly.
First, you meet with a doctor to evaluate your case and determine if the PRP may be right for you. It is important to bring all your imaging reports (MRI, ultrasound, x-rays) and a list of your medications to this appointment to facilitate this assessment.
If the PRP is indicated, a date will be provided for the procedure. You should stop using your anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs with or without prescription (Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, etc.)) one week before the procedure and during the treatment period.
We start with a blood test where we take between 20 and 60 ml.
Notice the red blood of uniform color.
The blood is then centrifuged to separate the different components.
Note the appearance of a yellowish layer in the sample. The red blood cells have migrated to the bottom of the syringe and will be rejected.
Here is the high concentration sample of platelet growth factors that will be injected.
For optimum precision, the injection is done under ultrasound guidance.
Discomfort and stiffness may be felt following the injection. In the majority of cases, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is sufficient to relieve the patient. The application of ice or heat should be limited to ten minutes. Two weeks later, a light exercise program is usually started to restore your tissues. You then see the doctor eight weeks after the initial procedure for re-evaluation.
How many treatment can be needed?
Although the response to treatment differs for each person, most will receive between one and three treatments.
There is no limit to the number of treatments one can receive, unlike cortisone.
Following a PRP treatment, you will see a significant improvement in symptoms and a return to normal function. We are seeing a decrease in drug use and less reliance on surgery.
No. PRP is produced from your blood whereas stem cell treatments require pelvic bone marrow puncture or adipose tissue puncture. It is no longer possible to inject stem cells for musculoskeletal injuries in Canada.
Fortunately, a new treatment option has been available in Canada since spring 2019. Injection of nSTRIDE, an autologous protein solution that provides 70% relief of knee osteoarthritis pain for up to 2 years following a single injection. The injections of PRP and nSTRIDE are therefore two very interesting alternatives for cases that have failed initial treatments.
Our multidisciplinary sport medecine team will be happy to help you. Contact us for all your questions or to book an appointment.