Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

1. What is Platelet Rich Plasma?

The platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is composed of plasma with an increased concentration of platelets. We find therefore an immense 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.

How PRP work ?

To prepare PRP, a small amount of blood is taken from the patient. This blood is then centrifuged and the PRP is extracted. augmete process of platelets and growth factors of 500%.

When the PRP is injected into the damaged tissue, it stimulates the ligament or tendon, causing inflammation that triggers the cascade of repair. It follows the development of new collagen mature, it shrinks and causes a strengthening of the tendons or ligaments injured.

Is that the PRP is right for you?

If you have an injury to a tendon or a ligament and that conventional treatments have not yielded satisfactory results, the PRP may be the solution. The procedure is less invasive than surgery and helps to heal tissue with little or no scarring.
During the initial assessment, the sports medicine physician will review your case and determine with you whether the PRP can help.

The PRP is indicated for several conditions
  • Epicondylitis lateral and medial (Tennis Elbow, Golfer's Elbow)
  • Tendinitis Achilles tendon
  • Tendinopathy of the rotator cuff
  • Tendinopathy of the hamstrings
  • Patellar tendinopathy (Runner's Knee)
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Ankle Sprain
  • Muscle Tear
  • Aftermath of various sprains
  • Etc..

Possible injection sites of the PRP are:

  • Shoulders
  • Elbows
  • Hands and Wrists
  • Hips and pelvis
  • Knees
  • Legs
  • Ankles and feet

2. What are the steps?

First, you see a doctor to evaluate your case and determine whether the PRP can be agreed. It is important to bring to this appointment, all of your imaging reports (MRI, ultrasound, x-rays) and a list of your medications in order to facilitate this assessment.

If the PRI is specified, a date will be scheduled for the procedure. You stop using your anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs with or without prescription (ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, etc..)) One week before the procedure and during the duration of treatment.

prise-de-sang-250px sang-rouge-250px centrifuge-250px
1. We start with a blood test where we take between 20 and 60 ml. 2. Notice the red blood of uniform color. 3. The blood is then centrifuged to separate the various components.
plaquette-250px
4. Note the appearance of a yellowish layer in the sample. Red blood cells have migrated to the bottom of the syringe and will be rejected. 5. Here is the sample of high concentrated platelet growth factors that will be injected. 6. For optimum accuracy, the injection is done under ultrasound guidance.

 

Discomfort and stiffness can be felt after the injection. In most cases, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is sufficient to relieve the patient. Applying ice or heat should be limited to ten minutes. Two weeks later, a light exercise program is usually initiated to restore your tissues. Then you review the physician six to eight weeks after the initial procedure for a reassessment

How many treatments are needed?

Although the response to treatment differs for each person, most will receive between one and three treatments. Some refractory cases may require up to six treatments. Each treatment is spaced six to eight weeks.

There is no limit to the number of treatments that can receive, in contrast to cortisone.

3. What are the potential benefits of PRP?

Following treatment of PRP, you will see a significant improvement in symptoms and a return to normal function. We are seeing a decrease in drug consumption and less need for surgery.