PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP)
What is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a product derived from a patient's blood. A sample of the blood is obtained, and centrifuged to isolate the specific growth factors within. What is left is the platelet-rich fluid, containing growth factors, which is then injected into damaged tissue. This is often done under ultrasound-guidance.
What is the Science?
PRP contains numerous growth factors including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor (TGF), platelet factor interleukin (IL), platelet-derived angiogenesis factor (PDAF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), insulin-like growth factor IGF and fibronectin (Lubkowska et al.). It is these factors that are thought to promote healing of damaged tissue.
How are the injections performed?
Each injection is performed in an outpatient, office setting. Dr. Burns uses ultrasound-guidance for each injection, to ensure injection accuracy.
What conditions are treated?
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Rotator cuff damage
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Tennis elbow
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Golfers elbow
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Jumpers Knee
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Joint pain
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Arthritis
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Many others
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Video
Fitzpatrick, Jane, Max Bulsara, and Ming H. Zheng. "The effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of tendinopathy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials." The American journal of sports medicine 45.1 (2017): 226-233.
Laudy, Augustinus BM, et al. "Efficacy of platelet-rich plasma injections in osteoarthritis of the knee: a systematic review and meta-analysis." Br J Sports Med 49.10 (2015): 657-672.
Lubkowska, A., B. Dolegowska, and G. Banfi. "Growth factor content in PRP and their applicability in medicine." J Biol Regul Homeost Agents 26.2 Suppl 1 (2012): 3S-22S.
Meheux, Carlos J., et al. "Efficacy of intra-articular platelet-rich plasma injections in knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review." Arthroscopy 32.3 (2016): 495-505.