What is PRP (Platelet) injection?
Platelet injection is a simple, natural and innovative method to treat numerous orthopedic conditions (tendonitis, muscle or joint injuries, arthritis…). This technique involves injecting platelets (containing growth factors from the patient’s own blood) into the area of damage, poor vascular supply, promoting healing in those areas.
Growth factors affect:
Neovascularization (formation of new blood vessels in the damaged area),
Collagen fiber renewal,
Cell activation to promote tissue remodeling.
This triggers natural tissue healing and remodeling processes that help reduce pain and ensure return to normal activity and long-term patient comfort.
Why are we talking about platelet concentrate, blood plasma or PRP?
The separated product prepared for injection is called different things, so you will hear the following terms:
Autologous platelet concentrate
Autologous blood plasma
PRP (platelet-rich plasma)
They all refer to the same product created by a platelet injection.
Platelet injection (PRP): What does the procedure involve?
The procedure is very simple and consists of three steps:
- Sampling: As in a blood test, a small amount of blood is taken from the patient. It is then centrifuged to separate the platelets (which contain growth factors) from the red blood cells. After centrifugation, the injection process can begin.
- Preparation for injection: Injection sites are determined by the physician, usually using ultrasound or x-ray.
A mild anesthetic may be administered before the injection (skin injection or relaxing gas).
3.Platelet injection: Platelet concentrate is injected and a dressing is applied to the injection site.
After the injection, which takes only 1 hour as an outpatient treatment, the patient can walk home. However, if the procedure is performed on the lower extremities and both sides are treated, the use of crutches may be recommended.
What conditions can be treated with platelet injections?
Indications: Tendinitis, sprain, muscle tear…
Treatment method: Platelet injection (PRP)
Tendon, ligament or muscle damage;
Expected results: Regulation of inflammation, rapid and natural healing, reduction in pain so that the patient can return to normal activity and resume sports activity
Osteoarthritis and cartilage damage;
Indications: Early stage arthritis, traumatic cartilage damage (caused by a fall, accident or sports injury).
Treatment method: Hyaluronic acid or platelet injection (PRP)
Expected results:Regulation of inflammation, restoration of stability, and pain-free movement (range of motion, recurrence)
Meniscus damage
Indications: Minor meniscus damage (tear, crack…)
Treatment method: Platelet injection (PRP)
Expected results: Thought to trigger natural healing for some very specific lesions, thus eliminating the need for meniscectomy (meniscus ablation). However, this process is still at the evaluation stage.