Frequently asked questions about the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in traumatology

Frequently asked questions about the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in traumatology:

1. What is PRP and how does it work in traumatology?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment consists of the application of plasma, extracted from the patient, with a platelet concentration well above normal. The purpose of this treatment is to stimulate or trigger the regeneration, scarring, or healing process of injured tissue, applying it either locally on an outpatient basis or as a complement to a surgical procedure in the operating room.

2. What types of injuries or conditions is PRP used for in traumatology?

PRP is indicated for all injuries of the musculoskeletal system: bone, tendon, ligament, cartilage, or muscle injuries. PRP is applied for the following injuries:

• chronic tendinopathies.
• tendon ruptures.
• focal cartilage injuries.
• muscle injuries.
• osteoarthritis.
• Ligament injuries.
• Fractures.
• Pseudarthrosis (non-union of a fracture)

3. Is PRP injection painful?

Intra-articular PRP injections generate a level of discomfort similar to injections with other products such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid. However, tendon injections with PRP can be more painful. In some cases, nerve blocks can be performed to anesthetize the treated area. In others, subcutaneous local anesthesia can be used, provided that the anesthetic does not come into contact with the injected PRP, as this reduces or nullifies its effect.

4. How many PRP sessions are usually necessary?

There is no specific number. It depends on the pathology being treated and the patient's response and progress. For example, for knee osteoarthritis, cycles of 2 to 4 injections are recommended (more information: https://drjordijimenez.com/en/treatments/infiltrations-with-platelet-rich-plasma-prp/update-on-the-use-of-platelet-rich-plasma-prp-in-the-treatment-of-knee-osteoarthritis).

5. How long does PRP treatment take to take effect?

Approximately 4 to 6 weeks, although many patients notice them sooner.

6. What are the risks or side effects of PRP?

PRP as a product is very safe. Special precautions should be taken in patients with infections, specific hematological disorders, and a history of active or cured cancer. (I suggest consulting:https://drjordijimenez.com/en/treatments/infiltrations-with-platelet-rich-plasma-prp/prp-safety-in-patients-with-infections-cancer-or-blood-disorders). Aside from these groups, the main risks are those derived from the infiltration process itself:

• Pain at the injection site
• Swelling
• Hematoma
• Infection
• Nerve injury
• Allergic reaction: Although rare, an allergic reaction to a substance used in the process (for example, the anticoagulant) could occur.
• Bleeding

Ultrasound guidance reduces most of these risks.

7. Are there any contraindications for PRP?

Yes, there are. There is a broad consensus that the use of PRP is contraindicated in the following cases:

• Infection or problems in the skin area to be injected.
• Active general infections
• Active malignant neoplasms, extending the recommendation to neoplasms with or without metastasis, outside or even distant from the knee.
• Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) or thrombocytosis (high platelet count).
• Coagulopathies (blood clotting disorders).
• The use of antiplatelet medication is considered a relative contraindication, especially in patients without surgical treatment options. The expected reduced effect after administration should be noted.

We recommend consulting: https://drjordijimenez.com/en/treatments/infiltrations-with-platelet-rich-plasma-prp/prp-safety-in-patients-with-infections-cancer-or-blood-disorders

8. Can PRP be combined with other treatments?

Yes. It is recommended to complement PRP injection treatment with physical therapy, stretching, and active exercises.

9. How long does the effect of PRP last?

It depends on the severity of the injury, the structure being treated, and the patient's specific characteristics. Studies on the use of PRP in knee osteoarthritis report periods of clinical improvement of approximately one year.

10. Is rest required after PRP injection?

After any injection, 24 to 48 hours of joint rest are recommended. In the case of PRP, some publications reduce this precaution to 12 to 24 hours.

11. How is PRP obtained?

PRP is obtained from a patient's blood sample, which is centrifuged for a few minutes, separating the plasma fraction from the red blood cell concentrate. This PRP contains a very high concentration of platelets, which contain large amounts of growth factors that are released locally when they are activated.

12. What is the approximate cost of PRP treatment?

The cost of PRP treatment in traumatology can vary considerably in Spain depending on various factors, such as the clinical picture, the area being treated, the number of sessions required, and whether it is combined with other techniques (such as ultrasound guidance). They can range between €250 and €300 per session.

13. Is there an age limit for PRP treatment?

In principle, there is no age limit for PRP treatment. It is important to note that its effect may be reduced in patients over 65 years of age.

14. What are the differences between PRP and stem cells?

PRP uses growth factors present in platelets to stimulate healing, while stem cells have the ability to differentiate into different cell types and directly regenerate damaged tissue. They are different approaches within regenerative medicine.