PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. At its core, PRP therapy is the process of taking a small amount of a patient’s own blood, concentrating the platelets, and then reintroducing that concentration back into the body. The idea is based on using the body’s own biological material instead of introducing outside sources.
PRP has gained attention because it’s autologous, meaning it comes from the patient who is also receiving the treatment. This eliminates concerns related to donor compatibility and has made PRP a subject of study across different areas of medicine. Even though PRP has been around for decades, it’s only in recent years that its applications have started gaining wider recognition.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to PRP Therapy
- The Science of Platelets and Plasma
- How PRP is Prepared
- Different Types of PRP
- Medical Areas Where PRP is Used
- The Procedure: What to Expect
- Ongoing Research and Advancements
- Key Considerations for Providers and Patients
- Looking Ahead with PRP
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Science of Platelets and Plasma
What are Platelets?
Platelets are small, disc-shaped fragments that circulate in the blood. Their primary role is to stop bleeding by clumping together and forming clots at injury sites. However, they are also rich in proteins and factors that researchers believe may be important in the healing process.
Because of their unique properties, platelets are central to PRP therapy. By isolating and concentrating them, providers aim to provide platelets in a more targeted way.
What is Plasma?
Plasma makes up more than half of human blood. It is a straw-colored fluid that carries blood cells, nutrients, hormones, and proteins throughout the body. Without plasma, red and white blood cells would not be able to travel to where they are needed.
In PRP therapy, plasma is the vehicle that holds and delivers the concentrated platelets. It provides the foundation for creating platelet-rich solutions that can be prepared at the point of care.
How PRP is Prepared
While there are different techniques depending on the clinic or equipment used, PRP preparation generally follows three main steps.
Step 1: Blood Collection
The first step is simple: a small vial of blood is drawn from the patient. This is no different from a standard blood test. The amount collected depends on the type of PRP being prepared and how much will be needed for the procedure.
Step 2: Centrifugation
Next, the blood is placed in a centrifuge. This is a machine that spins at very high speeds to separate the components of the blood by weight. Red blood cells are heavier and move to the bottom, while platelets and plasma are lighter and stay at the top. The goal is to isolate a portion of plasma that contains a high concentration of platelets.
Step 3: Injection or Application
Once prepared, the platelet-rich plasma is collected and loaded into a syringe. From there, it may be injected directly into an area of the body or applied topically in certain skin procedures. In some cases, imaging tools like ultrasound are used to guide the injection to a precise location.
Different Types of PRP
PRP is not a single, uniform product. Its exact makeup can vary based on how it’s prepared. Some methods produce platelet-rich plasma that also includes white blood cells (known as leukocyte-rich PRP), while others reduce the presence of white blood cells (leukocyte-poor PRP).
These differences are important because they can influence how PRP behaves in the body. Researchers are actively studying which type of PRP may be best suited for certain applications. This lack of standardization is one reason why study results can vary from one trial to another.
Medical Areas Where PRP is Used
PRP has been studied across a wide range of medical fields. Here are some of the main areas where it’s currently used or researched:
- Orthopedics: In this field, PRP is often studied for its potential role in the application of post-joint and tendon injuries.
- Sports Medicine: Many athletes have received PRP therapy for injuries, which has drawn public attention to the practice.
- Dermatology and Aesthetics: PRP is sometimes paired with microneedling or used in hair-related procedures.
- Dentistry and Oral Surgery: PRP has been explored in treatments for jawbone and gum health.
While interest in PRP is growing, it’s important to remember that not all uses are backed by the same level of evidence. Research is still ongoing to better understand where PRP may be most effective.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Before the Procedure
Preparation for PRP is fairly straightforward. Some providers ask patients to avoid anti-inflammatory medications or blood thinners in the days before the procedure. This is because these medications can influence platelet activity. Providers will also typically review medical history to confirm whether PRP is a safe option for the individual.
During the Procedure
The procedure itself is relatively quick. After drawing blood and preparing the PRP, the injection is administered to the target area. Some clinics use imaging guidance to place the injection precisely, especially when targeting joints or tendons. Depending on the type of treatment, local anesthetic may be used to minimize discomfort.
After the Procedure
Afterward, it’s common to feel mild soreness or notice swelling at the injection site. This reaction is temporary and generally resolves within a few days. Providers may recommend avoiding strenuous activity for a short period of time. The longer-term experience varies, and research continues to evaluate how outcomes differ across patients.
Ongoing Research and Advancements
PRP therapy is one of the most actively studied areas of regenerative medicine. Around the world, providers and researchers are exploring new ways to refine its preparation and expand its applications. While exact protocols can differ depending on the system and specialty, this ongoing work reflects how dynamic and forward-looking the field truly is.
The interest in PRP continues to grow because of its versatility and potential across multiple disciplines. As advancements in technology and preparation methods evolve, providers are gaining access to more consistent tools that support efficiency in clinical practice.
Key Considerations for Providers and Patients
PRP therapy is valued for being autologous — it comes directly from a patient’s own blood. This makes it a trusted option for many providers, and it has already been adopted across specialties such as orthopedics, sports medicine, aesthetics, and dentistry.
For patients, it’s important to understand that PRP is a procedure performed by a healthcare professional and may involve a short recovery period. Some individuals notice temporary sensitivity at the injection site, which is a normal response when the body is stimulated.
Looking Ahead with PRP
PRP therapy represents one of the most dynamic areas of regenerative medicine. Its ability to harness a patient’s own biology makes it a valuable option under study across multiple specialties. While research is still ongoing, its adoption reflects both promise and interest in new approaches to care.
At Acesso Biologics, we are proud to support providers with PRP Kits. If you would like to learn more about our PRP Kits or explore how they can support your clinical practice, connect with us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a PRP session take?
Most PRP sessions last between 45 minutes and an hour. This time includes the blood draw, centrifugation, preparation of the platelet-rich portion, and the injection itself. Some procedures, such as those combined with microneedling, may take slightly longer.
3. How many PRP sessions are usually needed?
The number of sessions can vary based on the provider’s protocol and the area being treated. Some patients undergo a single session, while others may return for multiple treatments spaced weeks or months apart. Your provider will typically recommend a plan based on your needs and the goals of care.
4. Does PRP therapy work the same for everyone?
Outcomes can vary. Research has shown that PRP may be more effective in certain contexts than others, and the method of preparation can also make a difference. Individual biology plays a role too, which is why results may differ from person to person.