eReport 2010-01
Toronto SEMI is pleased to offer a brand new, very exciting therapy, for both chronic injuries, and, acute injuries where speeding up healing is a priority. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections involve withdrawing 20-60 cc of a patient’s OWN blood. Next, the blood is processed in a special centrifuge, which separates the blood into various components. One of the components, PRP, contains a high concentration of blood platelets, and as a result, a high concentration of Growth Factors. The PRP is then injected into the damaged tissue. This is where the excitement begins!
What are platelets and growth factors?
Platelets are one type of cell found in blood. These specialized cells have many functions, including helping blood clot when you are bleeding, providing a ‘scaffold’ for tissue healing when injured, and producing a myriad of ‘growth factors’ that help the body heal itself once injured. Growth factors are compounds that are made by platelets, examples of which include Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), TGF-B (Transforming Growth Factor-Beta) and VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor). These compounds are instrumental in attracting other cells that aid in healing, stimulating new blood vessel formation helpful in the healing process and promoting reproduction of cells necessary for healing. Processing the blood into PRP results in an average 4-5 fold increase in the concentration of these important growth factors. Thus, when injected into the injured tissue, a big ‘hit’ of healing compounds flood the injury, stimulating healing.
What is PRP used for?
PRP is used in a variety of problems…basically, anywhere an injury is slow in healing, or, when you may want to speed up healing beyond the averages that most people experience. Tendon injuries, ligament injuries and cartilage injuries are all potential targets for PRP injections. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, muscle tears, ligament tears, rotator cuff tendinopathy and cartilage tears may all respond to PRP. Speeding up ‘normal’ healing is also a very powerful part of PRP injections. For instance, any athlete with an upcoming important competition can benefit from PRP injections to speed up healing. An individual with a planned active vacation where an injury may negatively affect the trip can also benefit, with the hope of healing to the point where the vacation can be actively pursued and enjoyed.
How long has PRP been used?
The earliest work with PRP began about 20 years ago, but really has come to the forefront of sports medicine care only recently. In the past, it has been used to speed up surgical healing, and now it’s application has expanded to non surgical situations. In fact, PRP is often used prior to surgical intervention, and can definitely reduce the chances that you will need surgery for a stubborn injury.
Are the injections guided by ultrasound?
Many times, the structure being injected is very easy to localize, and the injection is very straight forward. These do not require ultrasound guidance. However, sometimes, ultrasound guidance is used to ensure accurate needle placement, especially for more difficult injections.
How many injections will I need?
Often one is it. Sometimes, more are needed depending on the injury and the individual.
Is there any science to support it's use?
Absolutely … more than you will care to read! See the reference list at the end of this article.
Questions?
Call us to book an appointment at 416-223-SEMI (7364) to discuss!
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I have never been disappointed with the service of SEMI and I continue to marvel at the high professional standards exhibited by all members of your staff. I would, without hesitation, recommend anyone of your physiotherapists, as the physio treatments have undoubtedly aided in my speedy recovery. Thanks you for treating me and helping me to return to my gym routines.
