Harnessing the Healing Power of Platelets

Platelet Rich Plasma therapy (PRP) is a non-surgical treatment option that promotes long lasting healing of musculoskeletal conditions. The acronym "PRP" has been all over the news with the rising popularity of the treatment among professional athletes and recreational athletes. However, what is not mentioned in the news is this revolutionary treatment is available to animals too.

Everyone knows about the role of platelets in blood clotting, but platelets also have a role in healing. When they are recruited to the site of a wound or bleed, they combine with other clotting factors to make a scab, but they also trigger healing of the damaged tissue.

Platelets contain Platelet Derived Growth Factor ab, Transforming Growth Factors α and β, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF), Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) , and Insulin Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), which initiate wound healing processes.¹ They also contain more than 30 different proteins that have roles in tissue healing and hemostasis.¹ Platelet Rich Plasma preparations also contain 3 blood proteins involved in cell adhesion, fibrin, fibronectin, and vitronectin.¹

Platelet Rich Plasma thus, can be used to promote tissue healing in tendinopathy, muscle injury, osteoarthritis, and even long bone healing.^1,2 All in a non-operative manner, giving the patient the maximum comfort and mitigating the increased risk for infection that comes along with surgery.

The timeframe for experiencing results is dependent upon the area of injury and the extent of the injury. On average, most patients start to see signs of improvement in the form of reduced pain or increased function within four to six weeks. A similar, if not shorter recovery time compared to surgeries that repair the same injuries.

We are excited to be bringing PRP treatment to the bay area pets. Contact us today for more information about the procedure and appointments.   

1. Dhurat, R & Sukesh, MS. (2014). Principles and Methods of Preparation of Platelet-Rich Plasma: A Review and Author's Perspective. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. 7(4):189-107. doi 10.4103/0974-2077.150734
2. Gianakos, A; Zambrana, L; Savage-Elliott, I; Lane, JM & Kennedy, JG. (2015). Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Animal Long-Bone Model: An Analysis of Basic Science Evidence. Orthopedics. 38(12):e1079-e1090. doi 10.3928/01477447-20151120-04