A PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injection is a therapeutic treatment retrieved from a patient’s blood. PRP consists of two elements: plasma – the liquid portion of blood, and platelets – a type of blood cell that plays an important role in healing throughout the body.

Platelets are recognised for their clotting abilities, but they also contain growth factors that can trigger cell reproduction, stimulate tissue regeneration and healing in the area of concern.

Because PRP injection has 5 to 10 times as many platelets as a normal blood sample would, injecting it into the target area may aid in improving symptoms as well as lead to faster wound healing.

Using aseptic technique, blood samples will be taken from the patient. It will then be centrifuged into concentrated platelets.  The radiologist may administer anaesthetic into the skin before injecting the concentrated platelets into the target area to stimulate tissue regeneration.

PRP injections can take a few weeks to see or feel initial results of the treatment. It might take several months for injured or diseased tissues to fully heal. Some individuals may need more than one PRP injection to achieve the results.

Benefits

• Help accelerate the healing of chronic tendon injuries, ligament tears and muscle strains
• Reduce pain and inflammation and
• Improve movement and function
• Provides sufficient pain relief to progress with rehabilitative physical therapy
• May reduce the need for oral pain medication
• Delays and/or avoids the need for surgery

Preparation

Do NOT take anti-inflammatory medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.), blood thinners, antiplatelet medications, vitamin E, gingko biloba, fish oil/omega 3 and garlic supplements for 2 weeks BEFORE the injection.

(NOTE: If your medication has been prescribed by your doctor, you will need their approval PRIOR to STOPPING your medication.)

Limit alcohol consumption and smoking for at least a week prior to the procedure.

Do NOT eat fatty/fast foods in the 5 DAYS prior to the procedure.

Drink plenty of water in the 48 hours prior to the procedure.

Do NOT take anti-inflammatory medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.) for 2 weeks AFTER the injection.

Please bring any previous diagnostic imaging and reports related to the area.

Appointment required.

However, we will accommodate for urgent cases to provide same-day appointments and report.

NOTE: PRP is not suitable for patients with platelet dysfunction syndrome, very low platelet count (critical thrombocytopenia), blood clotting disorder (hypofibrinogenemia), haemodynamic instability, autoimmune disease, cancer/malignancy, sepsis, chronic liver disease or any other blood disorders.