Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is an injection based therapy, used for the management of musculoskeletal conditions. PRP is a concentrated mixture of platelet cells sourced from a person's own blood. Platelets contain high concentrations of growth factors and cytokines that are associated with tissue healing and inflammatory responses. In orthopaedics and sports medicine, PRP is commonly used for the management of chronic tendon injuries and to reduce the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis.
Brisbane Hip Clinic offers PRP injection services to assist with the management of chronic tendinopathy and related conditions. PRP can also be used for the management of hip osteoarthrits, although if injectable therapies are considered appropriate for hip osteoarthritis, we typically recommend viscosupplementation or corticosteroid medications as first line therapy.
How PRP Injections are performed
PRP is obtained from the patient's own blood. Depending on the application and condition, 30-60ml of blood is withdrawn from a vein near the the elbow using a fine needle. The donation process is identical to having a blood test. The blood is mixed with an anticoagulant within a cylinder and then placed into a centrifuge machine. The centrifuge spins the blood cylinder at high speed to separate the blood into three main layers, each containing different types and concentrations of blood cells. The platelet-rich plasma fraction of the blood is then extracted and injected into the area of injury under ultrasound guidance.
The procedure is conducted within the offices of the Brisbane Hip Clinic and takes about 45 minutes in total.
Practical notes for patients undertaking PRP Injections
Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) and fish oil supplements may adversely affect platelet function and therefore substantially reduce the effectiveness of PRP injections. These medications must be ceased for a minimum of 2 weeks prior to PRP injection therapy. Likewise, some medications prescribed after heart attacks or strokes (anti-platelet agents) will adversely affect blood platelets, if these medications cannot be discontinued then alternatives to PRP should be considered. Anti-inflammatory medications can be restarted 72 hours after your PRP injection has been conducted if required. Steroid based anti-inflammatory medications (asthma puffers, cortisone tablets) do not need to be ceased prior to PRP injections. You can continue taking paracetamol products and analgesics as required about the time of your injection.
PRP injections require 2-6 weeks for clinical effect. A short duration of increased inflammation and symptoms at the site of injection may be experienced. Depending on the condition being treated, a second injection may be recommended.
This information has been written by A/Prof Patrick Weinrauch for the purposes of patient education. The details provided are of general nature only and do not substitute for professional recommendations based on an individual clinical assessment. © A/Prof Patrick Weinrauch. Brisbane Hip Clinic.
