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Sunday, May 22, 2016

By Robert Johnson


Platelets are cellular structures found in blood and involved in the process of tissue healing and repair. Platelet rich plasma (or PRP) is blood plasma augmented with platelets. This mixture also contains growth factors and chemicals known as cytokines. The use of PRP has been adopted in many medical fields including cosmetic surgery, pain management and dentistry among others. In this article we will look at how platelet rich plasma therapy is used in Vaughan.

PRP preparation starts with the collection of your own blood in a tube. The blood is then centrifuged twice to separate the platelet rich plasma from the cellular components which comprise the white and red cells. The next step is activation. This involves the addition of calcium chloride and thrombin. Other important components of PRP at this point include connective tissue growth factor, interleukin 8, fibroblast growth factor and insulin-like growth factor among others.

PRP is usually injected directly in the affected area under ultrasound guidance. This ensures that it is accurate as possible especially when dealing with enclosed spaces such as joints. Some of the conditions that may be managed using this form of treatment include ligament sprains, pelvic pain, rotator cuff tears, ankle sprains, osteoarthritis and cardiac muscle injuries among others. The treatment may be administered on its own or alongside other therapies.

Among the most modern application is the use of the treatment in managing sporting injuries particularly in contact sports. PRP therapy has ensured that athletes remain on the sidelines for a shorter period of time than before when they suffer from connective tissue injuries. Although there were concerns initially that this treatment was breaching anti-doping laws, no obvious competitive advantage has been found.

The procedure is usually done in a few hours. It can be safely performed in an outpatient clinic since there is no need of anesthesia. Improvements will be noted on the same day and one can resume their regular activities immediately. The number of injections that are needed vary depending on the condition that is being managed and its severity. On average one to three injections are administered in six months.

Rarely, some people may experience pain at the site of injection. While this may resolve in a few days in most cases, there are individuals who have this problem for weeks. This is likely to be experienced when the injections are done into tendons. Introduction of the PRP may increase the pressure in an area that is already irritated aggravating the problem further. What is important to remember is that this pain eventually abates regardless of how long it takes.

There are some situations in which the administration of PRP should be with caution due to possible complications. One of such situations is where the patient is a heavy smoker. The nicotine found in tobacco delays healing and may increase the risk of bleeding following the injection. Medical conditions that present potential risks include sepsis, thrombocytopenia, skin cancers, liver disease and reduced fibrinogen levels among others.

Platelet rich plasma treatment is a treatment that has continued to grow tremendously in recent times. It is one of the most natural and safest treatments that exist and quite effective for chronic conditions at the same time. Ongoing research suggests that this is going to be one of the main treatments of the future. If you feel that the treatment will be beneficial in your case, talk to your doctor so that your suitability as a candidate can be assessed.




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