Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy
What is Platelet Rich Plasma?
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a treatment that uses a special part of your pet’s own blood to help heal injuries and reduce pain. Here’s how it works: a veterinarian takes a sample of your dog’s or cat’s blood and spins it in a machine to separate the platelets, which are tiny cells that help with healing. The concentrated platelets are then injected back into the area that needs treatment, like a sore joint or a wound.
What are platelets?
Platelets are blood cells that have multiple purposes in the body. One of their main functions is to produce a clot so that a patient does not bleed to death. However, platelets also contain proteins that can help the body heal.
When would PRP therapy be indicated?
PRP is a form of regenerative medicine that has been proposed to treat inflammatory conditions that affect ligaments, muscles, and tendons, such as osteoarthritis and cruciate ligament injury. It may also help with bone regeneration after a bone fracture.
PRP has been proposed as an aid to promote the healing of skin wounds, dental disease and eye injuries. The concept is that by injecting PRP at the site of inflammation, that it will promote healing of the affected tissue and reduce inflammation.
How does it work?
Platelets contain alpha granules which carry substances called cytokines or growth factors. This includes growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-B). These growth factors are the basis of PRP therapy. They help attract other cells to the wounded area such as macrophages which engulf pathogens. These growth factors can also activate cells called fibroblasts and endothelial cells to repair wounded and inflamed tissues.
What are the side effects and risks of PRP therapy?
Since PRP therapy requires using a patient’s own blood to acquire their own platelets, side effects appear to be minimal, but they may include pain, irritation, or bleeding at the site of the injection.
In Summary:
The benefits of Platelet Rich Plasma therapy for dogs and cats include:
A. Pain Relief: It can help reduce pain from arthritis or injuries.
B. Faster Healing: It promotes quicker recovery from surgeries or injuries.
C. Reduced Inflammation: It helps decrease swelling and inflammation in affected areas.
D. Natural Treatment: Since it uses your pet’s own blood, there’s a lower risk of allergic reactions or complications.
F. Economical cost: If surgery is not possible due to the cost, PRP could be a good alternative to manage certain orthopedic disorders.
Overall, PRP therapy can be a great option to help your furry friends feel better and get back to their playful selves!
Feel free to contact us with any questions or to schedule an appointment for your pet.
