Articles by Dr. David J. King

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

Related to: Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) & Stem Cells, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

Platelet rich plasma grafts, often referred to as PRP, are currently used to treat a variety of muscle, tendon, ligament and cartilage injures without surgery. PRP refers to a specific portion of ones own blood that can be separated, concentrated and injected back into specific damaged tissues, where it stimulates healing. The concentrated PRP contains special cells and growth factors that are vital to tissue repair. By concentrating these factors, we maximize the bodies healing potential. Often the PRP is combined with other materials to hold the cells and growth factors in a specific location. These combined components create a platelet rich plasma matrix graft. In order to increase the accuracy of graft placement, we use ultrasound or other techniques to confirm needle placement during injections.

PRP injections are combined with physical therapy and other non-operative treatment protocols tailored to the specific injury. Although a single injection may be enough to stimulate healing, PRP is often given as a series of injections separated by three to four week intervals. Injection are administered in the clinic and given with local anesthetics to decrease discomfort.

Although the goal of PRP is to heal tissue damage without surgery, there are situations that require surgery to repair significant muscle, tendon, ligament or cartilage injuries. In many of the instances, PRP can be used to improve the repair process initiated by the surgery. The injections can be used at the time of surgery and at set intervals after an operation to increase the chance of a successful outcome.

Dr. King is currently using PRP in the non-operative treatment of a variety of injuries to the elbow, shoulder, hip and knee. In addition, he uses PRP in combination with surgical procedures, such as, total joint replacement, hip arthroscopy, rotator cuff repair and a variety of other procedures. 

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