Orthopedic Applications

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is plasma with many more platelets than what is typically found in blood. A high-quality PRP system can concentrate platelets 6-10 times greater than what is usual in blood. The platelets contain growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor, epidermal growth factor (EGF), fibroblast growth factor, and connective tissue growth factor. Blood is drawn from the patient and is then placed in a centrifuge to spin at high speeds. This allows the platelet-rich plasma to separate from the blood.
Cutting edge techniques in modern medicine allows us to extract total nucleated cells from bone marrow, concentrate them through a lab process and then re-inject them directly into the injured tissues in different areas of the body.

PRP and total nucleated cells are used to help repair the tissue, calm osteoarthritic symptoms and decrease inflammation, implement healing in injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints, and can be applied to various musculoskeletal problems. These treatments have the ability to slow down the loss of cartilage within a joint, preventing further wear on the flexible tissues at the end of a bone. PRP is also useful in decreasing pain and stiffness while improving the patient’s ability to function.

Patients have been opting for PRP and total nucleated cell treatments as a less invasive alternative to undergoing surgery. When the PRP is injected directly into the afflicted area it will generate a response in the joint to stimulate the formation of new cartilage as well as inhibit inflammation and slow down the progression of osteoarthritis. Patients are far less vulnerable to the risks that accompany surgeries when treated with PRP, such as the chance of infection and blood clotting.