PRP - Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy
What is PRP?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentration of platelets derived from the patient’s own blood. Platelets are a component of blood that play a crucial role in clotting and tissue healing. They contain growth factors and other bioactive proteins that stimulate cell repair and regeneration. Plasma contains many factors essential for cell survival including nutrients, vitamins, hormones, electrolytes, growth factors (such as IGF and HGF), and proteins. Among the plasma proteins, the molecules involved in the coagulation process allow the formation of the fibrin polymer that serves as ascaffold for cell migration and new tissue generation.
Plasma contains numerous vital components necessary for cell survival, including:
- Nutrients
- Vitamins
- Hormones
- Electrolytes
- Growth factors (such as IGF – Insulin-like Growth Factor and HGF – Hepatocyte Growth Factor)
- Proteins
Among these proteins, plasma proteins involved in coagulation play a key role. They enable the
formation of fibrin polymer, a fibrous network that acts as a scaffold. This scaffold supports cell
migration and new tissue formation, both of which are essential in the tissue regeneration process.
How is PRP prepared?
- Purpose: Uses patient’s own platelets to stimulate healing in joint tissues.
- Frequency: 1–3 injections spaced weeks apart; repeated every 6–12 months if effective.
Benefits of PRP
- Stimulates collagen production
- Accelerates tissue repair and regeneration
- Reduces inflammation
- Promotes healing in tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints
- Used in aesthetic medicine (e.g., hair restoration, facial rejuvenation, acne scar treatment)
Advantages of PRP Therapy
- Uses the patient’s own blood – low risk of allergic reactions
- Minimally invasive
- Shorter recovery time compared to surgery
Considerations
- Results vary from person to person and more evidence is needed to confirm efficacy.
- Treatment may not be covered by health insurance.
