Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

Whole blood contains formed elements (cells and platelets) and plasma (water, nutrients, proteins, etc.). When blood is separated in a test tube using a centrifuge, there is a region in the middle of the test tube that is plasma and rich with many platelets.

Dr. Roufaiel will draw blood from you and place it in a test tube and then in a machine called a centrifuge. This machine will rotate at a force significant enough to separate the components of your blood based on density. The more dense blood components like red blood cells will be at the bottom and the less dense components like plasma will be at the top of the tube. He will then remove the portion in the middle of the tube that is plasma and rich in platelets to use for your injection.

Procedure times vary depending on the number of injection locations. The average time of a PRP injection procedure is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Recovery time for each patient will vary. In general, joint injections for arthritis take 3-7 days for swelling and soreness to subside, 1-2 weeks for ligaments, and up to 3-4 months to appreciate the full effect healing potential for tendons. Dr. Roufaiel will be better able to discuss your specific time course with you.

As PRP injections is a new and developing procedure, definitive benefit is still inconclusive. Nonetheless, one study has shown that PRP injections are more than hyaluronic acid injections in the degeneration of cartilage in the knee joint. Another study, shows that patients who used PRP injections recovered faster after surgery for Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) than those who did not use PRP injections.

Yes, PRP is FDA cleared. PRP is considered a “biologic” by FDA definition and not a “drug” because it comes from the person’s own body and therefore does not need to be approved, but yes, it is cleared for use.

The indicated patient for the PRP injection is one who has tendon, ligament, muscle, or joint pain or injuries. It can also be ideal for those looking to recover sooner from surgery or for cosmetic reasons (i.e. hair growth and wrinkles). Dr. Roufaiel will help you determine if the PRP injection procedure is appropriate for you.

Your health insurance may or may not cover PRP injections. Consult your health plan’s details to find out or contact us below and we can help you answer that question.