How is PRP prepared?

The doctor will draw a small volume of your blood under sterile conditions, centrifuge the blood and finally process it manually to prepare PRP.

How does PRP joint injection work?

PRP is harvested from patients own blood. PRP contains plasma with a high concentration of platelets. Once injected in the joint, it releases growth factors and improves the blood flow in the area which in turn helps in healing of tissues.

What are the limitations of the PRP joint injections?

The main limitation is that the effect of such injections is variable and may not be effective in some individuals.

Can we combine PRP joint injections with other products?

In certain conditions, PRP can be injected in combination with hyaluronic acid to improve the effects. Physiotherapy is also an important adjuvant to improve the mobility and function of the joint.

In what conditions should you not have a PRP joint injection?

PRP joint injections should be avoided/ not done in the following conditions:

• Local infection in the skin at the site of injection / Infection in the joint
• Patients on blood thinners such as warfarin, apixaban etc
• In health condition affecting the way blood clots, such as haemophilia. This can increase risk of bleeding into the joint.
• Allergy to PRP tube gel or local anaesthetic.

What do you need to do prior to having a PRP joint injection?

• You will have a telephonic/video/face to face consultation with our doctor to assess if you are suitable for the procedure
• If possible stop/avoid pain killers such as ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac sodium.
• Wear comfortable clothes that allow easy access to the joint that is to be injected.
• Arrange for a family member or a friend to drive you home

What happens during this procedure?

• First the area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution
• The PRP is mixed with a small volume of local anaesthetic to reduce the pain and discomfort during and after the injection
• A small dose of local anaesthetic is injected in the skin and then the mixture of PRP and local anaesthetic is injected in the joint. The injection is guided by ultrasound to improve the accuracy of the injection
• The area is injection is covered with a sterile dressing.
• The health professional carrying out the injection will examine your joint and clean your skin with an antiseptic.
• You will be allowed to go home when you feel well and your vital signs are stable

What are the Side-effects of PRP joint injections?

Side effects of PRP joint injections include:

• The pain and swelling can become worse for a couple of days in the joint that is injected.
• Feeling hot or having a flushed or red face.
• Infection in the joint

What is the aftercare PRP joint injections?

• Apply cold compress (Ice pack wrapped in a towel) on the area for 15 minutes each time. This will help to resolve swelling and bruising
• Doctor will prescribe you pain killers to control the post-procedure pain.
• Rest your joint for a day or two at least. You should be careful not to do too much using the joint for the first couple of weeks.
• In terms of mobility, take it easy for a couple of days.
• It can take up to a week for the steroid injection to start working and easing your pain. Your health professional may give you some gentle exercises to do. You can slowly build these up as your symptoms improve.
• If you feel the area of injection looks red and inflamed, immediately contact the clinic.