Platelet‑Rich Plasma (PRP)

Natural solution for your spine!

What is Platelet‑Rich Plasma (PRP)?

Platelet‑Rich Plasma (PRP) is an innovative treatment method that uses plasma enriched with platelets, obtained from the patient’s own blood. The process involves drawing a blood sample, centrifuging it to separate platelet‑rich plasma, and then injecting this concentrated preparation into areas affected by pain or tissue damage. Platelets contain growth factors and cytokines that support healing and tissue regeneration.

Mechanism of action of PRP

PRP works by stimulating the body’s natural regenerative processes. Platelets release growth factors that accelerate the repair of damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and

support collagen production. Because of these properties, PRP can be used to treat various spinal and joint conditions, such as low back pain, degenerative changes in intervertebral discs, and sacroiliac joint pain.

Stages of the procedure

Hide
Show

1. Venous blood draw

The procedure begins with collecting a small amount of the patient’s venous blood (typically

10–60 ml), most often from the antecubital vein. Because the material comes exclusively

from the patient, PRP is a fully autologous preparation, which minimizes the risk of immune

reactions or infections.

2. Isolation of platelet‑rich plasma

The collected blood is placed into sterile tubes and subjected to centrifugation in a

specialized medical centrifuge.

During centrifugation, blood components separate, allowing isolation of the platelet‑rich

fraction - containing a high concentration of platelets (thrombocytes) and growth factors. The

resulting plasma is then aspirated into a sterile syringe.

After centrifugation, the blood components are separated.

3. Injection site preparation and anesthesia

The patient is positioned lying down (most commonly prone).

The skin at the planned injection site is thoroughly disinfected.

In most cases, local infiltrative anesthesia is administered to increase patient comfort during

the procedure.

4. PRP injection under X-ray imaging guidance

Under fluoroscopy (real‑time X‑ray) or ultrasound guidance, the physician advances a thin

needle to the precisely selected target:

  • facet (zygapophyseal) joint,
  • ligament insertions,
  • anulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc,
  • paraspinal muscles and soft tissues.

After confirming correct needle placement, the prepared PRP concentrate is slowly injected.


Clinical notes

  • The procedure is minimally invasive and performed on an outpatient basis.
  • On the day of the procedure, it is advisable to avoid strenuous exercise and not take
  • non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as they may attenuate PRP activity.
  • In some cases, a series of 2–3 injections at 4–6‑week intervals is recommended.