Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a novel approach to tissue regeneration that brings much promise to the field.
It is used in various medical fields, such as: Sports Medicine, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetic Dermatology & Veterinary Medicine
What is PRP?
An autologous concentration of platelets together with their associated growth factors in a small volume of plasma. PRP is prepared by taking a small sample of the patient's own blood, and via centrifugation, separating the leukocytes and platelets from the red blood cells. The PRP is then extracted and can be injected back into the wound site.
Platelets – What do they do?
Platelets play an important role in the body's natural healing. Platelets carry
α-granules that contain clotting and growth factors, which are released during the healing process. Upon activation, platelets aggregate and eventually release the growth factors, which stimulate the wound healing cascade.
The following growth factors are reported to be present in PRP:
Platelet –derived growth factor (PDGF) Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) Epidermal growth factor (EGF) Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)
References:
1. Michael P. Hall et al. Platelet-rich Plasma: Current Concepts and Application in Sports Medicine. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2009; 17:602-608