Platelet-rich plasma or PRP

Plasma refers to the fluid component of blood, which is the medium for red and white blood cells and other travel material in the bloodstream. Plasma is primarily water, but also includes proteins, nutrients, glucose, and antibodies, among other components.

Platelet-rich plasma is a hemoderivative prepared by centrifugation of autologous blood, with the aim of increasing the concentration of platelets and therefore the level of growth factors. The regenerative and anti-inflammatory potential of platelet-rich plasma is being investigated in multiple musculoskeletal pathologies including osteoarthritis. In addition, adverse effects would be mild, mainly secondary to arthrocentesis. However, the costs associated with this intervention are usually substantial, so it is essential to have a clear estimate of the benefits and risks.

Growth factors have been used in the treatment of osteoarthritis for some time. Since it has a short half-life, its treatment has to take place inside the joint. Thanks to the use of platelets the improvement of 70% of patients is achieved.

Their effects are not always long-lasting, so the treatment must be repeated periodically.

For some years now, in order to improve the results and increase the duration of this treatment, new ways have been tried to carry out the treatment of osteoarthritis with plasma rich in platelets, for example: injecting this treatment into the bone beneath the cartilage.

The steps are as follows:

• The patient comes to the consultation and blood is drawn.
• The blood is prepared, i.e. centrifuged.
• Platelets are taken, which have the mediators of tissue repair.
• Finally, the patient is injected and can go home.
• If there is any difficulty in the application, it should be done with the help of an ultrasound or in the operating room under X-ray control.