Intro to PRP Therapy

Question 1

What is a platelet responsible for and what are the normative values?

Answer 1

hemostatic activity
150k-400k

they also contain secretory granules that help with the aggregration process and immune response

Question 2

what do activated platelets release?

Answer 2

PGF Platelet Growth Factor

Question 3

what is PRP?

Answer 3

platelet-rich plasma

an autologous derivative of whole blood that contains platelet concentrations 2-3x the average level and has several proteins that aid in healing.

Question 4

what is the current use of PRP?

Answer 4

orthopedic procedures, cardiac surgery, sports injury, plastic surgery, gyneo, urology, and medical esthetics

Question 5

An injection of concentrated platelets at sites of injury may _______________ via the release of many biologically ___________ (growth factors, cytokines,
lysosomes) and __________ that are responsible for initiating the hemostatic cascade, synthesis of new connective tissue, and revascularization.

Answer 5

initiate tissue repair
active factors
adhesion proteins

Question 6

PRP concentrates can stimulate the supraphysiological release of growth factors to __________________ in chronic injuries and accelerate the acute injury repair process

Answer 6

jump-start healing

Question 7

is the prep process for PRP standard?

Answer 7

no, and so it is difficult to ascertain efficacy because of hte poorly standardized preparations and differing opinions

Question 8

what are the clinical applications of PRP?

Answer 8

-peridontal/maxiollofacial disease
- MSK and tissue regeneration caused by a sports injury
- tendon injuries
- medical esthetics
- regenerative plastic surgery
- diabetic foot ulcers
- intrauterine infusion in women undergoing assisted reproduction

Question 9

is PRP safe and consistent?

Answer 9

safe yes
but it is inconsistent in patient outcomes and has questionable efficacy.

Question 10

what are challenges to using PRP?

Answer 10

• new and unheard of
• pediatric usage is minimal
• accessibility and affordability
• research is scarce

Question 11

what are PRP applications with rehab?

Answer 11

• PT and mechanial loading in the restoration of tendon structure post PRP injections
• strong evidence in knee OA; potential in would healing
• no consensus on optimal rehab protocols