Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP)

Platelet-rich plasma, also known as PRP, is a blood-derived, non-surgical therapy designed to promote healing. It is used for the treatment of soft tissue injuries (tendon/ligament) and for the repair of damaged cartilage inside arthritic joints.

Why platelets?

Platelets are a normal cellular component of the blood. Besides having an especially important role in blood clotting, they also have an important use in equine regenerative sports medicine. When injected into damaged tissue or joints, platelets release numerous growth factors that promote healing. These include platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). These and other growth factors help to collectively stimulate the production of repair tissue (extracellular matrix) in an area of damage.

How do we obtain a sample for injection?

Aseptic technique is used to prepare a site for sample collection over a jugular vein. A sterile blood sample is obtained using dedicated syringes and tubes. Using a specialized centrifuge, the blood is spun, separating the sample into a ‘platelet-poor’ sample and a ‘platelet-rich’ sample. The ‘platelet-rich’ sample (containing millions of platelets) is then drawn up into individual syringes in preparation for injection. The pre-determined site of injection is aseptically prepared, and the sample is administered using sterile technique. Depending on the treatment area, a bandage is applied following injection.

When to choose PRP

PRP therapy is used primarily for the treatment of tendon or ligament tearing (desmopathy) as well as injected into inflamed, arthritic joints (intra-articularly). When used for soft tissue damage (tendon/ligament), RES prefers use ultrasound-guidance to accurately inject the platelets directly into the damaged area. PRP injection into joints is a similar process as is used with steroid joint injections.

Dr. Mike and RES are fully outfitted to perform PRP collection and injection at your home/barn. Feel free to contact Dr. Mike and RES if you have questions or think your horse may benefit from platelet-rich plasma treatment.