Orthopedics
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
Platelet Rich Plasma otherwise known a PRP is a very useful therapy for many orthopedic and cosmetic plastic surgery applications. It has been used since the early 1990’s in plastic surgery. The PRP has through degranulation release of growth factors, cytokines and even some unknown factors which are noted to stimulate growth and healing.
Quantification of various healing factors in PRP
Like stromal vascular fraction the exact amount of each growth factor and platelets is not easy to know. Each persons blood composition from which PRP is derived is variable so will be the various counts of cells as well as measurement of healing factors. We do know generally what is contained within the PRP mix.
List of known healing factors:
- platelet-derived growth factor
- transforming growth factor beta
- fibroblast growth factor
- insulin-like growth factor 1
- insulin-like growth factor 2
- vascular endothelial growth factor
- epidermal growth factor
- Interleukin 8
- keratinocyte growth factor
- connective tissue growth factor
PRP Orthopedic Applications
Orthopedic surgeons have noted bone growth stimulation helping to heal fractures and stimulate the strengthening of tendons and ligaments. Although early studies show promise for these and other orthopedic conditions its still early to state that these are proven therapies. The FDA has approved two methods of preparing PRP. Clinical applications include areas like cardiac muscle, tendons, ligaments, joints and even nerves.
PRP Cosmetic Applications
The use of PRP has been recently quite frequent in facial and skin conditions used extensively in Asia. Its thought that it will stimulate collagen and vascularization (increase blood supply) which give the complexion a very healthy glow as well increase the thickness of the skin. Some claim it reverses the dark age spots such as melasma. Some doctors have tired to patent the procedure and given it fancy marketing names like the “Vampire Face Lift” which is actually a trademark of the name, but the procedure of adding hyaluronic acid fillers to injection of PRP can be done by any doctor familiar with the technique. However doctors cannot patent a surgical procedure due to ethical requirements and the like.
We at the Hawaii Stem Cell Treatment Center will use PRP for both Orthopedic and Cosmetic purposes at times. If your interested in this contact our office.