What is PRP therapy
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is blood plasma with an increased platelet concentration. Platelets store alpha-granules — a depot of growth factors: PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, EGF, IGF-1, bFGF. Once activated, platelets release these proteins that:
Stimulate cell division
Chondrocytes (cartilage), tenocytes (tendons), fibroblasts (ligaments) all respond to growth factors by proliferating and synthesizing matrix.
Improve blood supply
VEGF stimulates formation of new microvessels. Critical for tendons — they have poor baseline blood supply.
Modulate inflammation
PRP shifts chronic non-productive inflammation to acute regenerative. The tissue remodels and heals instead of slowly degrading.
Trigger collagen production
Regenerated ligaments and tendons restore their collagen fiber structure — visible on post-treatment ultrasound.
When PRP is used
Stage I–II arthrosis
Knee (gonarthrosis), shoulder (omarthrosis), hip (coxarthrosis), ankle, hand joints. At stage I–II, PRP is an optimal choice for cartilage regeneration.
Tendinopathies
Tennis and golfer's elbow, Achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, patellar tendinopathy, rotator cuff tendinopathy, de Quervain's.
Ligament and meniscus injuries
Partial ACL, PCL and collateral ligament tears. Degenerative and stable meniscal tears. Combined with orthopedic immobilization.
Sports trauma
Muscle tears, hamstring strains, Hoffa pad injuries, bone marrow bruises. PRP accelerates return to sport by 20–40%.
Spine
Early degenerative disc disease, facet syndrome, myofascial trigger points. Targeted injections under ultrasound guidance.
Post-surgical recovery
Accelerated healing after arthroscopy, ligament reconstruction. PRP complements orthopedic care.
PRP vs CGF vs Lipogems®
PRP
The most accessible product. Easy harvest (venous blood), minimal invasiveness. Optimal for mild and moderate degeneration, sports injuries. Effect lasts 6–12 months; courses can be repeated.
CGF (Concentrated Growth Factors)
Evolution of PRP. Higher growth factor concentration in a fibrin matrix. Longer and stronger effect. Indicated for moderate and severe stages, chronic tendinopathies.
Lipogems® Ortho / SVF / BMAC
Cellular products — mesenchymal cells from fat or bone marrow. Used for severe arthrosis, large cartilage defects, failed back surgery. Maximum regenerative potential.
Product choice is the physician's task after MRI and exam. A combination is often used — for example, Lipogems® + CGF in one visit.
How the procedure works
1. Blood draw
10–30 mL from a vein — like a routine blood test. Takes 2–3 minutes.
2. Centrifugation
A standardized centrifugation protocol separates blood into fractions. Platelet-rich plasma is collected. 10–15 minutes.
3. Ultrasound navigation
The doctor marks the injection point under ultrasound. Sono-Control Arm fixes the probe; Cyber-Navi-Hand tracks needle position.
4. Injection
Local anesthesia. PRP is placed precisely into the damage zone. 10–15 minutes. Practically painless.
5. Observation
30–60 minutes post-procedure in the clinic. No hospitalization needed.
6. Home the same day
Return to light activity — immediately. Return to sport — in 1–2 weeks (by doctor's approval).
Results and timing
In the first 1–3 days, mild tenderness and swelling are possible — part of the regenerative response. NSAIDs are not recommended during this period (they suppress regeneration). Warm compresses and rest are enough.
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Submit a requestFrequently asked questions
Autologous plasma enriched with platelets and growth factors. Injected into damaged tissue for regeneration.
Stage I–II arthrosis, tendinopathies, ligaments, meniscus, sports injuries, early disc degeneration.
Standardized protocol, ultrasound and optical navigation, individualized plan, often with CGF/Lipogems®, MRI monitoring.
Usually 2–3 with a 2–4 week interval. For severe degeneration — up to 4–5 or combined with CGF.
Local tenderness 1–3 days — normal. No immune rejection (own material). Serious complications are extremely rare.