Orthopaedic Surgery - Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection

Post PRP Guidance

Platelet-rich plasma consists of two elements: plasma, or the liquid portion of blood, and platelets, a type of blood cell that plays a significant role in healing throughout the body. Platelets are well-known for their clotting abilities, but they also contain growth factors that can trigger cell reproduction and stimulate tissue regeneration or healing in the treated area. Platelet-rich plasma is simply blood that contains more platelets than normal.

To create platelet-rich plasma, clinicians take a blood sample from the patient and place it into a device called a centrifuge that rapidly spins the sample, separating out the other components of the blood from the platelets and concentrating them within the plasma.

After creating platelet-rich plasma from a patient's blood sample, that solution is injected into the target area, such as an injured knee or a tendon. In some cases, the clinician may use ultrasound to guide the injection. The idea is to increase the concentration of specific bioproteins or hormones, called growth factors, in a specific area to accelerate the healing process.

The mechanism behind PRP injections is not completely understood. Studies show that the increased concentration of growth factors in platelet-rich plasma may stimulate or speed up the healing process, shortening healing time for injuries, decreasing pain and even encouraging hair growth.

You will have a 1 injection using our ACP MAX PRP system.

Post procedure guidelines

• Rest on the day of your procedure
• For the next 2 days, we advise limited use of the injection area, but movement is encouraged. This helps the joint recover as the injection is absorbed by the area's surrounding tissues

0 - 3 days post-procedure guidelines

• After your treatment, there is a chance you'll experience some mild to moderate pain or discomfort at the injection site. This is normal, and it is a sign that your body is healing as it adjusts to the injection. It is best to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to help promote healing
• It is critical that you DO NOT take any Anti-inflammatory medications for at least 4 weeks post-procedure. These are medications such as Diclofenac, Ibuprofen and Naproxen

Other important guidelines to follow, after your PRP procedure are:

• Avoid applying ice or heat to the injection site for the first 72 hours post-procedure
• Don't take a hot bath or go to a sauna for the first few days post-procedure
• Avoid consumption of any alcoholic beverages for 2 days post- procedure
• Avoid smoking

4 weeks post procedure guidelines

At this point in your healing, you should gradually increase your daily activities. This is also when you can begin exercises. Proper exercise is a vital part of long-term results, and we can help you determine which exercises are best suited for your needs prior to your procedure.

• Ice can be applied 3-4 times a day for 15-20 minutes as needed for comfort
• Continue to avoid alcoholic beverages, smoking, or excessive amounts of caffeine

We highly encourage you to begin physical therapy to aid in your long-term healing and continued recovery.

A follow-up appointment will be made for you to meet with our physician or medical team to review your healing process. It is important that you keep this follow up visit even if your recovery is going well. If there are any adjustments to your customised treatment plan, this is when our physician will be able to make those decisions.