Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

Platelet-rich plasma therapy, also called PRP, is the process of passing the blood taken from the patient and injecting it into the tissues that are planned to be treated. It can be applied to aesthetic defects as well as to help accelerate the healing of muscles, tendons, joints and ligaments.

WHAT IS PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP)?

In this process, which is a form of treatment where injecting one's own blood into the body parts takes place, the substance added to the injection is enriched plasma. Plasma is a component of blood that helps blood to clot. This substance, which also supports the growth process of cells, contains various proteins. By injecting this substance into the damaged tissues, the growth of new and healthy cells in the body is ensured. This substance also supports the healing process of damaged tissue.

MECHANISM OF ACTION OF PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP)

Alpha granules found in platelets contain growth factors that are released during the wound healing and coagulation process. A trigger is required for platelets to activate and promote tissue healing. For this reason, activator is added to the PRP solution. After this procedure, the substance spreads around the damaged tissues. The growth factors in the alpha granules begin to be released and the stem cells in the area are stimulated and the healing process is initiated.

WHY IS PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) APPLIED?

PRP application, is the initiation of tissue healing in the area and acceleration of this process by sending active cells from the platelets that go to the damaged area or tissue with normal blood circulation. This treatment, which is a healing therapy on a cellular basis, is also used to reduce inflammation. In addition, it is applied for various reasons such as accelerating hair growth, activating the soft tissue healing process and making the skin younger. This activation process has an important role in the body's natural healing process.

PREPARATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) SOLUTION

The first step in solution preparation is to collect blood from one of the patient's arm veins. The amount of this blood is determined according to the area to be treated and usually 2 to 4 tubes of blood are taken. This blood is mixed with a citrate solution. Then, the middle part of the blood in the tube, which is rich in platelets, is taken and the PRP solution is formed by adding an activator. After the completion of all these procedures, the activated PRP solution is injected into the locally anesthesized area.

USES OF PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP)

This treatment method has a wide range of uses. These areas applied are as follows:

Waist area
Dental surgery
Joint diseases
Cardiovascular surgery
PRP for hair and face for cosmetic reasons
Maxillofacial surgery
Plastic surgery
Sports injuries
Nerve surgery
Chronic diseases of tendons
Urology
Wound healing

AFTER PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) TREATMENT

There is usually pain at the injection site and persists for several days. However, the pain decreases as tissue repair takes place. During the painful period, 15-20 minutes of ice application should be done in 4 or 5 sessions per day. It is important that the patient does not take anti-inflammatory drugs during the treatment process. If necessary, the doctor may prescribe painkillers to relieve the patient's pain and provide relief. It is also important for the patient to avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting and sports after treatment.

HEALING PROCESS AFTER PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) INJECTION

After the injection, the person's healing process begins and this process is closely related to the condition of the treated area. There is no noticeable difference immediately after the procedure because growth factors need time to be activated. When this activation occurs, rapid recovery is seen within a few weeks or months.

IN HOW MANY SESSIONS IS PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) APPLIED?

Platelet-rich plasma therapy is applied in minimum 3 sessions at intervals of 3 to 4 weeks. After the first 3 sessions, the patient waits for 6 to 12 months and at the end of this waiting period, the application can be performed as a single dose.