1. What is Platelet Rich Plasma?

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.

How does the PRP work?

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.

Are there different types of PRP ?

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.

Is the PRP suitable for you?

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.

PRP is indicated for several conditions

• Lateral and Medial Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow, Golfer's Elbow)
• Osteoarthritis of the limbs
• Tendonitis of the Achilles tendon
• Tendinopathy of the rotator cuff
• Tendinopathy of the hamstrings
• Patellar Tendinopathy (Runner's Knee)
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Ankle sprain
• Muscle tear
• Sequelae of various sprains
• Etc.

The possible injection sites of PRP are:

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

2. What are the steps to follow?

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.

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 different components.
4. 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.	5. Here is the high concentration sample of platelet growth factors that will be injected.	6. 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 six to 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. Some rebel cases may require up to six treatments. Each treatment is spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart.

There is no limit to the number of treatments one can receive, unlike cortisone.

3. What are the potential benefits of PRP?

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.