Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections can provide long lasting reduction in pain associated with a range of degenerative joint and tendon problems such as joint osteoarthritis and tendinopathies. They can also be used in a range of other soft tissue conditions such as tennis elbow and plantar fasciitis which involve pain and degenerative changes identified on scans.

Generally, we suggest PRP therapy works better if you follow the following guidelines:

• Make sure you come in well hydrated (drink at least a litre of water on the day of the injection).
• Avoid medications that affect platelet function, such as aspirin or ibuprofen at least a week before.
• Tell your doctor if you have any conditions that may affect the outcome of PRP, such as low platelet count, clotting disorders, or blood tumours

The appointment will last around 40 minutes in total. First the clinical staff will draw some blood, from a vein in your arm. This blood is then spun very quickly in a specialist piece of equipment known as a ‘centrifuge’. This causes the plasma to separate from normal blood cells. The Consultant Radiologist will then inject the plasma using ultrasound guidance to accurately target the joint or tendon to be treated.

The Radiologist will normally walk through your results with you. However, this is not always possible as the radiologist might want to compare the findings from previous imaging or look at the images in more depth on a higher resolution screen. The Radiologist will report the images and send the report to your clinician who will then explain the results to you in more depth. This process can take up to 48 hours.

Your report will be available with your referrer, copies of your report are to be requested from your referrer directly, not the Imaging Department.

The effect of PRP Injections varies based on the patient and the condition treated. For conditions such as arthritis, 2 or 3 injections can last from 12-18 months. However, the impact on tendons is much more unpredictable.

One-off injection £900

Course of 3 injections £2200

The procedure may feel uncomfortable. The taking of the blood and the injection may feel a bit sore at the time, however most people tolerate it very well.

It can be normal to experience an increase in pain for 1-2 weeks after the injection. This is known as ‘post injection flare’ and is usually nothing to be concerned about.

Yes, PRP Injections are safe and any potential risks or side effects will be communicated to you during your appointment.