Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Stem Cells Plasms (SLP) procedures contain healing growth factors from your own blood that promote your body’s natural ability to repair itself.
Platelet injections have a stimulating effect on the repair cells within the targeted area, making those cells work harder to perform their natural job of healing the body. PRP injections are performed with high-level imaging guidance to ensure the most accurate placements of cells into the desired area. Platelet procedures are commonly used for small and large joints, soft tissue injuries, arthritis, spine conditions, and around nerves.
PRP and SCP is non-surgical treatment options for those suffering from pain related to osteoarthritis, joint injuries, spine pain, overuse conditions, and common sports injuries. PRP procedures have helped thousands of patients improve their quality of life, return to the activities they enjoy, and avoid the need for surgery or joint replacement.
Questions & answers
Who performs a PRP or SCP injection?
Specially trained Pain Management doctors or Orthopedic Surgeons
How is PRP and SCP injection performed?
PRP or SCP injection will be performed in an outpatient setting, Office Based Surgery Center accredited by AAAASF.
The procedure takes one to two hours and generally includes these steps:
- PRP: A small amount of your blood is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm.
- A technician will spin your blood in a machine called a centrifuge while you wait to create the PRP or SCP with a five-six-fold increase in platelet concentration.
- Doctor will numb the area of your injury with a local anesthetic. Procedure can be performed under IV sedation if needed
- Your doctor will inject the PRP or SCP into the area of your injury using fluoroscopy guidance during the injection to locate the best places for injection.
- You will likely go home right after your PRP or SCP injection.
Will I feel pain?
You will feel a brief pinch or prick during the needle insertion. Your healthcare team will give you sufficient sedative medications and/or IV sedation if you need them to stay comfortable.
What are the risks and potential complications of a platelet-rich plasma injection?
Complications after PRP or SCP injection are not common, but any procedure involves risks and potential complications. Complications may become serious in some cases. Complications can develop during the procedure or your recovery. Risks and potential complications of injection include:
- Adverse reaction or problems related to local anesthetic, such as an allergic reaction and problems with breathing
- Bleeding or bruising
- Damage to nerves and blood vessels
- Infection
- Pain
- Injection site reactions including swelling, tenderness and warmth
Reducing your risk of complications
You can reduce the risk of certain complications by:
- Notifying your doctor immediately of any concerns, such as bleeding, fever, or increase in pain
- Taking your medications exactly as directed
How do I prepare for my PRP injection?
The steps you take before your PRP injection can improve your comfort level and outcome. You can prepare for a injection by:
- Answering all questions about your medical history, alleriges, and medications you take. This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, herbal treatments, and vitamins.
- Taking or stopping medications exactly as directed. This may include not taking aspirin. Your doctor will give you individualized instructions for taking your specific medications and supplements.
- You are not allowed to eat or drink at least 4 hours before the procedure in case PRP or SCP injection will be performed under IV sedation
What can I expect after PRP or SCP injection?
Knowing what to expect after a PRP or SCP injection can help you get back to your everyday life as soon as possible and much faster than joints replacements.
How will I feel after the PRP or SCP injection?
You may have discomfort and swelling near your injection for the first two to three days after the PRP injection. Your doctor may recommend or prescribe medication to treat discomfort. Tell your doctor if your pain is not well controlled by your medication because it can be a sign of a complication.
Most people feel less pain and increased mobility and strength within two to four weeks of a PRP or SCP injection. Your doctor may recommend additional injections or treatments, such as physical therapy, depending on your condition.
When can I go home?
You will probably go home right after your PRP injection.
Is the Treatment Covered by my Insurance?
PRP and SCP procedures are not covered by health insurances at the moment. They are available only on a self-payment basis.
What Is The Cost of PRP or SCP?
The overall cost of the therapy is composed of different stages, including harvesting, storing, processing, and introducing cells to the clinic. However, for those wondering what is the cost of SCP therapy — the price will usually be around 4–5 thousand USD and for PRP – 600-700 USD per procedure. Our team will answer any questions you may have concerning stem cell therapy or its exact cost.