A cutting-edge therapeutic approach to rapid tissue growth and healing is the use of orthobiologics, specifically platelet rich plasma (PRP). PRP therapy utilizes the bioactive component of whole blood with autologous activated platelets in a fibrin matrix. Experience shows PRP injection therapy leads to better tissue organization and stronger mechanical properties, too.
First used over 20 years ago by oral and maxillofacial surgeons in jaw reconstruction, PRP is frequently used for cardiovascular and orthopaedic surgery. Sports medicine specialists recently began using PRP to treat patients with chronic tendonapathies and tendonosis. “Data thus far shows that PRP injections are extremely safe with minimal risk for adverse reaction or side effects,” says David B. Gealt, DO, Assistant Director of Sports Medicine at Cooper. “Pristine PRP is injected directly into the injured site to stimulate the body’s natural healing capacity in a supercharged manner.”
PRP therapy involves a simple blood draw of approximately 30 cc. The blood is put through a centrifuge to separate the highly concentrated PRP from the blood’s other components. “This therapy works especially well for patients with tendonitis or chronic tendonosis who have failed prior conservative management and are looking for alternatives to surgery,” adds Dr. Gealt.
Currently the FDA and insurance companies consider PRP injections as experimental and off-label. The hope is the FDA will grant approval in the near future as more studies are completed.
For more information about PRP, or to refer a patient, call 856.673.4914.