Platelet Rich Plasma or Platelet Rich Fibrin, also known as PRP/PRF, is derived from the patient's own blood in the following manner. A fraction of blood (20cc) is drawn from the individual patient into a syringe. This is a relatively small amount compared to blood donation. The blood is spun in a special centrifuge to separate its components (Red Blood Cells, Platelet Rich Plasma, Platelet Poor Plasma and White Blood Cells The Platelet Rich Plasma containing monocytes and various plasma proteins are collected into a syringe. The PRP is then injected within the next few minutes as a medical intervention. As the platelets organize in the clot, they release enzymes to promote healing and tissue responses including attracting stem cells and growth factors to repair damaged tissue and cause regeneration and rejuvenation.
The full procedure may take between 20-45 minutes. Often 3-4 treatments are advised, however, more or less may be necessary for some individuals. It is often recommended that treatments be done once a year after the initial group of treatments to continue regeneration and maintain or enhance the results.
PRP'S safety has been established for over 20 years for its wound healing properties and its theoretical effectiveness has extended across multiple medical specialties including cardiovascular surgery, orthopedics, sports medicine, podiatry, ENT, neurosurgery, dental and maxillofacial surgery (dental implants and sinus elevations), urology, dermatology (chronic wound healing), ophthalmology, and cosmetic surgery.
BENEFITS of PRP: PRP is autologous (using your own blood) therefore eliminating allergy potential. PRP has been shown to have tissue regenerating effects. Other benefits include: minimal down time, safe with minimal risk, short recovery time, and no general anesthesia is required.
CONTRAINDICATIONS: PRP use is safe for most individuals between the ages of 18-80. There are very few contraindications, however, patients with the following conditions are not candidates:
1. Pregnancy or Lactation
2. Acute and Chronic Infections
3. Skin diseases (i.e. SLE, porphyria, allergies)
5. Chemotherapy treatments
6. Severe metabolic and systemic disorders
7. Abnormal platelet function (blood disorders, i.e. Hemodynamic Instability, Hypofibrinogenemia, Critical Thrombocytopenia)
8. Chronic Liver Disease
9. Anticoagulation therapy (Coumadin, Warfarin, Plavix, Aspirin, Lovenox, Eliquis)
10. Underlying Sepsis
11. Systemic use of corticosteroids within two weeks of procedure