What is PRP?
PRP is a form of complementary treatment made by the injection of Platelet Rich Plasma obtained autologously from the person's own blood, consisting of the initials of the words in the expression "Platelet Rich Plasma" in English. The injected substance is platelet-enriched plasma. Plasma is special cells called platelets or other factors that help blood to clot. Plasma also contains various proteins that promote cell growth. By isolating and concentrating the plasma from the blood, physicians obtain a blood component called PRP, which is a plasma richer in platelet cells.
Injecting PRP into damaged tissues encourages the growth of new, healthy cells in the body. PRP has also been proven to promote healing in damaged tissue. Since tissue growth factors are more concentrated in the concentrated injection material, healing in body tissues is accelerated.
Platelet-rich plasma consists of two elements: plasma, or the liquid part of blood, and Platelets, a type of blood cell that plays an important role in healing in the body. Platelets are well known for their coagulation abilities, but they also contain growth factors that can trigger cell proliferation and stimulate tissue regeneration or healing in the treated area.
To create platelet-rich plasma, clinicians take a blood sample from the patient and place it in a device called a centrifuge, which spins the sample, separating the other components of the blood from the platelets and concentrating them in the plasma.
After creating platelet-rich plasma from a patient's blood sample, this fluid is injected into the target area, such as an injured knee or tendon. In some cases, the clinician may use ultrasound to guide the injection. The idea is to increase the concentration of certain bioproteins or hormones called growth factors in a given area to speed up the healing process.
The mechanism behind PRP injections is not fully understood. Studies show that increased concentration of growth factors in platelet-rich plasma can stimulate or accelerate the healing process, shorten the healing time of injuries, reduce pain, and even promote hair growth.
PRP injections are used for a variety of conditions, from musculoskeletal pain and injuries to cosmetic procedures.
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Some usage areas of PRP injections (PRP Indications):
Tendon, Ligament, Muscle and Joint Injuries
Post-Surgery Recovery
Calcification
Tissue Degeneration (Osteoarthritis Treatment)
Urology (Erectile Dysfunction, Sperm Poor)
Gynecology (Infertility)
hair loss
skin rejuvenation
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PRP Treatment Risks and Side Effects:
PRP injection is a low-risk procedure and does not usually cause significant side effects. The procedure involves a blood draw, so you should make sure you drink water and eat beforehand to avoid dizziness. After the procedure, you may experience some pain and bruising at the injection site.
Because PRP injections are made of your own cells and plasma, the risk of an allergic reaction is much lower than with other injectable drugs such as corticosteroids. Less common risks of PRP injections include:
Bleeding
Tissue damage
Infection
Nerve injuries