Recently, emerging evidence has suggested that Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) may also be of assistance in the treatment of osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions of joints.

It is felt that the growth factors may assist in cartilage regeneration and also mediate benefit by providing an immune modulating effect, whereby the inflammatory cascade is dampened. Thus, PRP may act as a natural anti-inflammatory substance to result in symptomatic pain relief of sore arthritic joints.

The process of obtaining PRP for use in treatment of osteoarthritis of joints is identical to that outlined for PRP injections of tendons.

An ultrasound machine is used to guide the safe and accurate delivery of PRP into a patient's arthritic knee.
An ultrasound machine is used to guide the safe and accurate delivery of PRP into a patient's arthritic knee.

References:

  1. Zhu Y, Yuan M, Meng HY, Wang AY, Guo QY, Wang Y, Peng J. Basic science and clinical application of platelet-rich plasma for cartilage defects and osteoarthritis: a review. Osteoarthritis Cartilage Aug 7. pii: S1063-4584(13)00903-5. doi: 10.1016/j.joca.2013.07.017. [Epub ahead of print] 2013
  2. Halpern BC, Chaudhury S, Rodeo SA. The role of platelet-rich plasma in inducing musculoskeletal tissue healingHSS JJul;8(2):137-45, 2012.
  3. Jang SJ, Kim JD, Cha SS. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections as an effective treatment for early osteoarthritis. Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol Jul;23(5):573-80, 2013

Further Information.

Referring doctors are  welcome to discuss with our radiologists the imaging and interventional radiology needs of their patients and whether a  platelet rich plasma (PRP) injection  is suitable for their patient’s medical condition.

Specialist Radiologists.
Dr George Koulouris Specialist Radiologist - Expertise in Interventional Radiology & Pain Management
MSK & MRI Fellowship Trained Radiologists
At Melbourne Radiology Clinic, all interventional procedures are performed by fellowship trained musculoskeletal and MRI specialist radiologists: