Also known as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), Autologous Platelet Concentrate (APC), or GPS® Platelet Concentration, this procedure utilizes growth factors present in your own blood to help speed up the progression of your healing after a surgery. 

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Platelet Gel dramatically decreases the chance of infection, swelling and bruising, thus increasing the rate of your healing process by as much as 80%. Many studies have been done that prove its effectiveness in healing and regeneration in various procedures, Platelets, while known for their clotting abilities, also contain growth factors that are responsible for stimulating tissue regeneration/healing in the affected area as well as cell reproduction.

Platelet poor plasma (PPP) is also used in this procedure, and is placed superficial to the platelet rich plasma which secures the gel in place and establishes a fibrin-rich clot, which enhances rapid and natural healing. Studies have also been done to show growth factors present in PPP can also supplement existing cartilage in joints and can be used to effectively promote healing in injuries involving tendons, ligaments, and muscles.  PPP contains elevated levels of fibrinogen, a glycoprotein in blood that transforms into a substance called fibrin. In a wound environment, fibrin forms a clot to enable attachment and healthy cell migration to the injured area, which further promotes fast and efficient healing.

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Furthermore, a small study done by a prominent orthopaedic surgeon and Suncoast Perfusion on total knee replacements showed a marked improvement in patient outcome. The length of stay in the group using Platelet Gel was 1.2 days lower. The need for bank blood was 23% less in the Platelet Gel Group. There was less blood loss in the Platelet Gel group and the Hgb dropped more than half a percent less with the gel. Many larger studies have been done that reinforce the same findings in addition to showing a dramatic decrease in pain medication and an improvement of range of motion post-operatively in the platelet gel group. 

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PRP has also been shown to dramatically decrease infection rate, increase fusion times in bone grafts and significantly decrease postoperative swelling and pain. PRP is an excellent treatment for torn ligaments, tendons and muscles. PRP can also be used in conjunction with Autotransfusion, or if your blood loss is low, it can eliminate the need for a post-op drain.

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Platelet Gel Therapy can be beneficial in many procedures, including...