• What is the purpose of PRP and stem cell applications?
• PRP and stem cell applications, which recently became popular, are frequently used in Orthopedics and Traumatology Department. PRP means platelet rich plasma and it is obtained by special methods. It is injected into the problematic area of ​​the patient in order to benefit from the person's own thrombocytes and some enzymes. The aim is to accelerate the recovery of damaged joints, cartilage, tendons, muscles and ligaments.

• How is PRP obtained?
• In the PRP procedure, the blood taken from the patient himself is passed through a number of processes and at the end, platelet-rich plasma is obtained. In this plasma, there are special growth factors and some proteins besides thrombocytes. It is thought that recovery is accelerated owing to this rich and supportive content. Despite its widespread use, studies are still ongoing in terms of its effectiveness and its scientific approach.

• Which ailments are used in the treatment?
• Joint calcification
• Tendon damage
• Tennis elbow / Golfer's elbow
• Heel spurs
• Expecting of the post-operative tissue healing support.
• Tendon and muscle damage

• How is it applied?
• The most common application method is PRP injection with a needle into the target tissue. During the process, which takes about half an hour, a certain amount of blood is taken from the patient first. The resulting PRP becomes ready to be injected after the blood taken has passed the procedure, which takes approximately 1.5 minutes. The obtained PRP is injected into the problem area with anesthetic medication to avoid any pain during the procedure.

• What should I pay attention to after the application?
• After the PRP is applied, there may be a slight swelling and pain in the relevant area. The patient can take painkillers for this and apply ice for swelling. It is not recommended to take anti-inflammatory drugs as it may reduce the effect of PRP. After the procedure, it is necessary to avoid heavy movements and exercises during the period recommended by the physician.

• How many times can PRP be applied?
• Sometimes a single application may be sufficient for PRP. However, depending on the course of the healing process, the process can be applied more several times.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mesut TAHTA

Orthopedics and Traumatology