Injecting platelet-rich plasma

What is platelet-rich plasma injection?

The injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into a joint space or tendon is an increasingly common treatment method that has been proven to relieve pain. It has several indications and involves very few risks. The use of a medical imaging device (ultrasound or fluoroscopy) allows the injection site to be precisely targeted while avoiding contact with nerves and blood vessels as much as possible.

A radiologist takes a blood sample from the patient, then places it in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from the red and white blood cells. The procedure is then performed in aseptic conditions by the radiologist, aided by a technologist or assistant. The PRP is injected into the area to be treated under ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance.

PRP injection promotes rapid tissue repair and pain reduction. It has been shown to be effective for several conditions such as tendonitis, sprains and tears. It may take a few weeks for the benefits to be felt, but rarely more than a month.

PRP injection therapy is an additional tool available to help treat musculoskeletal injuries. As with other types of injections (cortisone, hyaluronic acid, etc.), the results vary from person to person, therefore the success of the procedure cannot be guaranteed. Certain clinical and radiological criteria will allow the radiologist to evaluate whether you are a good candidate for PRP, but therapeutic failure is still possible as there are no signs that can predict the success of the procedure with certainty.

PRP injection can be performed in several places:

• Ankle and foot
• Spine: cervical, dorsal or lumbar
• Elbow
• Shoulder
• Knee
• Hip and pelvis
• Leg
• Wrist and hand