What are platelet rich plasma injections?

Also known as: PRP Injections, PRP Therapy

Platelets are a blood component that’s critical to the healing process. If help is needed in healing the body, such as after plastic surgery, or to heal a wound, then a treatment known as platelet rich plasma injections can be used. This involves using the patient’s own plasma to create a concentration that speeds up the healing process.


What happens during the treatment?

First, a sample of the patient’s blood is collected and put in a centrifuge in order to create a strong concentration of the platelets. These platelets are then collected for injection. Often, ultrasound is used to guide the injection to the precise location. The injection can be used to treat a variety of different conditions, including healing after plastic surgery, wound repair and even tendon and muscle injuries.


Is any special preparation needed?

In most cases, no special preparation is needed before platelet rich plasma injections.


What are the risk factors?

As platelet rich plasma injections begin to work, the pain at the area of healing can actually increase for a week or two as it accelerates the healing process. Other moderate risks include pain at the injection site, bleeding, infection, tissue damage and nerve injuries.


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This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM

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