The part of blood used for PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is the platelet-rich plasma, which is a concentrated portion of plasma containing a higher-than-normal number of platelets.
Understanding PRP and Its Components
PRP therapy utilizes the patient's own blood, which is processed to isolate and concentrate platelets within the plasma. Here's a breakdown:
- Whole Blood: The initial step involves drawing a sample of the patient's blood, similar to a routine blood test.
- Centrifugation: The blood sample is then placed in a centrifuge, a device that spins the blood at high speed. This process separates the blood into its different components based on density.
- Separation: Centrifugation results in distinct layers:
- Red Blood Cells (RBCs): These are the heaviest and settle at the bottom.
- Platelet-Poor Plasma (PPP): This is the plasma with a lower concentration of platelets.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): This is the concentrated plasma containing a high number of platelets. It's the key component used in PRP therapy.
- White Blood Cells (WBCs): A layer of WBCs lies between PRP and RBCs. Depending on the specific protocol, these may or may not be included in the final PRP product.
Why Platelets?
Platelets are small cell fragments in the blood that play a crucial role in:
- Blood Clotting: They aggregate at the site of injury to stop bleeding.
- Growth Factor Release: Platelets contain and release various growth factors that stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. These growth factors include:
- Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)
- Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β)
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)
- Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)
The PRP Procedure
- Blood Draw: A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient.
- Centrifugation: The blood is processed in a centrifuge to separate the PRP.
- Injection: The concentrated PRP is then injected into the targeted area of injury or pain.
By concentrating platelets and their growth factors, PRP therapy aims to accelerate the natural healing process and reduce pain.
