PRP

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a highly concentrated blood sample that contains isolated cells (platelets) and the fluid portions of blood (plasma). PRP can be useful for the following conditions:

• Osteoarthritis
• Post-surgical healing
• Joint Pain
• Muscle inflammation
• Tendon Repair

When used as a therapy, PRP can help regenerate and heal tissues by recruiting cells to an area of injury to clean up dead and injured cells and releasing proteins called “Growth Factors” which are responsible for tissue regeneration. Platelets are blood cells that have multiple purposes in the body. One of their main functions is to produce a clot so that a patient does not bleed to death. However, platelets also contain proteins that can help the body heal.

Platelets contain alpha granules that carry substances called cytokines or growth factors. This includes growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-B). These growth factors are the basis of PRP therapy. They help attract other cells to the wounded area, such as macrophages which engulf pathogens. These growth factors can also activate cells called fibroblasts and endothelial cells to repair wounded and inflamed tissues.

Pets with severe arthritis or ligament damage often benefit most from two or three treatments, separated by 2-4 week intervals.

Commonly Asked Questions