Platelet rich plasma (PRP)
PRP or platelet rich plasma has been used at least over the last 2 decades. Much has been written about PRP and its use in many orthopaedic conditions.
PRP treatment has received much focus after many celebrities have taken this treatment for various conditions such as chronic tendon and ligament problems.
At the end of the day, the fact is that PRP is not a magic mantra. It has potential benefits and must be used judiciously for it to have optimal effect.
What is PRP?
Our blood contains many cells- red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. They are all contained in the liquid part of blood- that is the plasma.
Platelets are the first responders to any injury. Platelets contain a multitude of growth factors which stimulate various other cells to initiate healing.
To make the PRP, blood is drawn from the patient and is processed Using special tubes and centrifugation. This allows the platelets to be separated from other blood cells.
This PRP is then directly injected into the injured area. The platelets release the growth factors in the damaged tissues and help the tissues to heal.
What conditions can be treated with PRP?
Some chronic tendon injuries and mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee can be treated by platelet rich plasma injections.
At present, PRP has shown little to no effect in management of ACL, PCL tears or complete tears of rotator cuff muscles.
PRP has been used in treating Partial tears of rotator cuff muscles and inflammation of the muscles, post-surgery in meniscal tears and with some positive results.
There are many studies showing the benefits of PRP in treating mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee. PRP has no effect in managing severe osteoarthritis.
In mild to moderate osteoarthritis, PRP injections have shown good results up to 2 years.
Does PRP cure arthritis?
No. PRP DOES NOT CURE arthritis. Unfortunately, PRP is being advertised as a cure for arthritis and a non-surgical alternate for TKR. It is important to note that PRP may improve the health of the cartilage by releasing its growth factors.
In addition to other treatment modalities such as physical therapy it may reduce the symptoms of arthritis and pain, but it cannot cure or reverse osteoarthritis.
Once the knee is severely arthritic (Grade III or IV), PRP treatment is not recommended since it is unlikely to give any meaningful relief.
Does PRP treatment need admission?
No, PRP is an outpatient treatment. The whole process of drawing blood, preparing the PRP and injecting should take about 30 minutes. There are no restrictions after taking the injections.
Get an evaluation of your knee, if you have mild to moderate arthritis your doctor may suggest a PRP injection to help you overcome pain, stiffness and improve mobility.
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