A platelet rich plasma injection is a minimally invasive orthopedic procedure designed to deliver a concentrated portion of your own blood directly into injured tissue. The process begins with a standard blood draw, usually between 30 and 60 milliliters, which is then processed in a centrifuge to isolate platelet rich plasma. This concentrated solution contains a higher than normal number of platelets, which play a key role in signaling tissue repair. Using ultrasound guidance, a physician precisely places the injection into the affected tendon, ligament, muscle, or joint. The goal is to trigger a localized healing response in areas that may have limited natural blood flow, helping support recovery over time.

Blood sample tubes in centrifuge used to prepare platelet rich plasma for PRP injection procedure

Platelet rich plasma is prepared using a small blood sample drawn from the patient. The blood is placed into a centrifuge, a device that spins at high speed to separate blood components by density. Red blood cells move to the bottom of the tube while plasma rises to the top. Platelets remain suspended within the plasma layer. Physicians collect this platelet concentrated plasma and prepare it for injection. The resulting PRP solution contains a platelet concentration that may be three to five times higher than normal circulating blood levels.

A typical platelet rich plasma procedure takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes in an outpatient orthopedic clinic. The blood draw usually requires only a few minutes. The centrifuge process used to separate and concentrate platelets typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Once the PRP is prepared, the physician performs the injection using sterile technique. The overall visit may take slightly longer depending on the number of injection sites and whether ultrasound guidance is used during the procedure.

Many orthopedic physicians use ultrasound guidance during PRP injections to improve accuracy. Ultrasound imaging allows the physician to visualize tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joint structures in real time. This helps ensure that the platelet rich plasma is delivered precisely into the injured tissue rather than surrounding structures. Accurate placement may improve the effectiveness of the treatment and reduce the risk of complications. Ultrasound guidance is commonly used when injecting PRP into tendons such as the rotator cuff, Achilles tendon, or elbow tendons.

Most patients experience only mild discomfort during a PRP injection procedure. The physician may use a local anesthetic to numb the skin and reduce pain from the needle insertion. Some patients feel pressure or temporary soreness as the platelet rich plasma is injected into the injured tissue. After the procedure mild soreness may continue for several days as the biological healing response begins. This reaction is considered a normal part of the treatment process as growth factors begin influencing tissue repair.

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This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Platelet rich plasma treatments are not FDA approved for all orthopedic uses. Patients should consult a licensed U.S. healthcare professional before pursuing treatment.