Platelet Rich Plasma is a biologic treatment promoting accelerated tissue regeneration and wound healing by using a small amount of a patient’s own blood. PRP therapy can be used for the management of several musculoskeletal conditions such as injuries of muscle, ligament, tendons, and joints, as well as inflammatory disorders of the joints such as arthritis.
A large volume of blood (30-60ml) is drawn and then this sample is spun in a centrifuge. Through this process, the blood is separated into red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Platelets are then isolated, and the resulting product is injected into the treatment area. PRP is meant to stimulate an inflammatory healing response using the growth factor released from the platelets.
In many cases, only one treatment with PRP is required.
For information about the post care instructions, click here.
PRP injections are guided by a live x-ray (fluoroscopy) and x-ray contrast (dye) for joints or by Ultrasound to confirm the correct location. PRP injections that are guided by ultrasound allow the Radiologist to see the needle while viewing the structure that is being treated.
Once you arrive at the clinic you will be asked to complete a few forms pertaining to the appointment. To allow adequate time for this, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. You may be instructed to change into a gown for your procedure.
You will be taken back to our nursing station 60 mins prior to the injection of the PRP. At this time the nurse will draw your blood and prepare it for the injection.
You will then be taken back to a private exam room for your procedure. One of our technologists and a Radiologist will review your previous diagnostic imaging, discuss the reason for your referral to Beam Radiology, and explain the details of the recommended pain management treatment.
Communication is very important to Beam, and you will be given opportunity to ask any questions you may have before beginning. You will be asked to lay down on the exam table on your back or your front depending on the area being injected. The targeted area will be cleaned and sterilized. To ensure effectiveness and accuracy, ultrasound or fluoroscopy will be used in real-time to guide the injection. Fluoroscopy is a type of X-ray imaging. The Radiologist will inject a local anesthetic to numb the area, followed by the platelet-rich plasma.
Following your injection, you will be directed to our recovery area for a brief observation period. One of our Nurses will review the post-procedure care with you, and then you will be free to leave the clinic.
This procedure is designed to create a controlled inflammatory response with the goal of providing symptom relief. Platelet Rich Plasma provides a gradual onset of relief that may take up to 4 weeks. A physiotherapy program may be recommended in conjunction with PRP treatment.
This procedure is performed using a sterile technique. Very rare complications include allergic reaction, infection, and bleeding.
Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid hot tubs, pools, or baths for 48 hours. You can shower normally.
Avoid any ice or oral anti-inflammatories for 2-4 weeks after the procedure. Tylenol can be used to control pain.
This procedure will require you to have a driver. This will be communicated at the time of booking.
You can perform your normal daily activities but avoid strenuous activities for 3-4 days following the treatment for joint PRP.
For PRP of the soft tissues, some patients may be required to be non-weight bearing with either a walking boot or crutches for a few days after the procedure. Others may be required to limit heavy lifting, strenuous activities, explosive or repetitive movements for two weeks after this procedure.
For information about the post care instructions, click here.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please
contact us. We look forward to supporting your journey to better health.
Dr. Clerk is a radiologist and fellowship-trained interventional radiologist with a wide array of experience in both interventional pain management and diagnostic imaging. In addition to providing expert patient care, Dr. Clerk places utmost importance on building a compassionate practice that recognizes patients as people, not numbers.
When you choose Beam, you can be confident that Dr. Clerk will stay with you throughout your care journey and help you make smart decisions about your pain and imaging needs.
Université de Sherbrooke
Medical School
Université de Sherbrooke
Residency | Diagnostic Radiology
Harvard Medical School
Fellowship | Neuroradiology
The Spine Fracture Institute
Fellowship | Interventional Pain Management