Information about Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy

Call 908-362-8767 for further information or to book your appointment.

PLATELET RICH PLASMA (abbreviated PRP) is the name given to a treatment done to stimulate healing which involves injection of one's own growth factors into injured areas.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is an emerging treatment in a new health sector known as "Orthobiologics." PRP offers a promising solution to accelerate healing of tendon injuries and osteoarthritis. The philosophy behind PRP is to merge cutting edge technology with the body's natural ability to heal itself without subjecting the patient to significant risk or surgical procedures.

Blood is made of Red Blood Cells (RBC), White Blood Cells (WBC), Plasma, and Platelets. In the last 20 years we have learned that when activated in the body, platelets release various healing proteins called growth factors. These growth factors have varying responsibilities and cumulatively can accelerate tissue and wound healing. The idea is that by increasing the baseline concentration of these platelets, PRP therapy is able to deliver a powerful supply of growth factors to improve tissue recovery and healing.

PRP History and Current Studies
PRP was initially used over 20 years ago in the Dental community to enhance wound healing in cancer patients with jaw reconstruction. Its applications were then extended across many fields of medicine from cardiovascular surgery to orthopaedics. Multiple studies are underway to help further refine the treatment and demonstrate its efficacy. 

How is PRP performed
First, a small amount of blood is drawn from the patient's arm. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge that spins the blood for approximately 15 minutes. This process removes the unwanted parts of blood that are not primarily responsible for healing including: RBC's, WBC's and plasma. The remainder is the increased concentration (up to 10x above baseline of platelets), which are rich in healing properties called growth factors. During this time, the patient receives either local anesthetic (injected) or conscious sedation (via IV), as determined beforehand by the physician and patient.

Your Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy physician is Dr. Walter Grote, who is providing these services: Tuesdays from 9:30 - 12:00 and Thursdays from 9:30 - 1:30 at Ascenza Wellness Center at 143 State Rt 94 in Blairstown.