What is PRP?
THE PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) is an innovative treatment that relies on the patient's own resources. It is a concentrate obtained from blood, rich in growth factors and proteins naturally present in platelets. These biological elements play a key role in the tissue repair, healing and modulation of inflammation.
Treatment begins with a simple blood test. After centrifugation, the platelet-enriched plasma is isolated and then injected directly into the joint affected by osteoarthritis: knee, hip, shoulder, ankle, or any other painful area. PRP is 100 % autologous, that is, it does not contain any medication, chemicals, or foreign substances. It is therefore a natural and well-tolerated therapy.
In which case is it indicated?
THE PRP treatment is particularly indicated in early to moderate forms of osteoarthritis, when the cartilage is still present and it is possible to slow the progression of the disease. It constitutes an alternative or a complement to conventional medical treatments when these become insufficient or poorly tolerated (analgesics, cortisone, hyaluronic acid).
Dr. Coulin recommends it in particular in the following situations:
- Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, shoulder or ankle.
- Persistent chronic pain despite well-conducted medical treatment.
- Local inflammation (synovitis) without severe joint degradation.
- Desire to delay surgery like fitting a prosthesis.
- Young and active patients, to maintain or preserve their joint capital.
THE PRP is also used as a complement to certain orthopedic surgeries (meniscus, ligaments, arthroscopy) to stimulate healing and accelerate recovery.
What is the role of PRP in osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis causes progressive wear and tear of the cartilage, causing mechanical pain, stiffness and loss of mobility. If the PRP does not allow the recreation of new cartilage, it acts effectively on several biological mechanisms:
- Reduction of local inflammation.
- Improvement in the quality of synovial fluid, a true lubricant of the joint.
- Long-lasting pain relief.
- Better joint function in everyday life.
In some patients, a stabilization of arthritic development is observed, which makes it possible to postpone the deadline for a surgical procedure. The PRP treatment is therefore part of a global strategy aimed at preserving mobility and improving quality of life.
How does the injection work with Dr. Coulin?
L'PRP injection is carried out in consultation, within a strict medical framework. The protocol includes:
- Blood collection classic.
- Centrifugation : the blood is placed in a centrifuge to isolate the platelet-rich plasma.
- Preparation : the PRP is collected in a sterile syringe.
- Intra-articular injection : precisely guided, sometimes under ultrasound to guarantee a perfectly targeted action.
The procedure is quick, painless, does not require general anesthesia and allows immediate resumption of daily activities.
What are the expected consequences and effects?
The consequences of a PRP injection are simple:
- Moderate local discomfort may occur for 24 to 48 hours.
- Resumption of activities is immediate, but intense physical efforts are not recommended for a few days.
Positive effects usually appear between 2 and 4 weeks after injection, with maximum benefit after 1 to 3 months. Patients often notice:
- A significant reduction in pain.
- Improved joint mobility.
- A reduction in the consumption of painkillers.
The duration of effectiveness varies between 6 and 12 months, depending on the joint treated and the patient's profile. Depending on the results, a second injection may be offered.
PRP or other injections: what’s the difference?
THE PRP is often compared to other injections used in orthopedics:
| Treatment | Main mechanism | Average duration | Typical indication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyaluronic acid | Joint lubrication | 6 to 12 months | Mild to moderate osteoarthritis |
| Cortisone | Rapid anti-inflammatory action | A few weeks | Acute pain, inflammatory flare-ups |
| PRP | Stimulation of tissue repair | 6 to 12 months | Early to moderate osteoarthritis, tendinopathies |
| Stem cells | Tissue regeneration | 12 to 24 months | Localized osteoarthritis in young patients |
THE PRP stands out for its natural, autologous side and its anti-inflammatory and healing-stimulating action.
Want to know if PRP is right for you?
Dr. Coulin will see you for a consultation in Geneva to establish a precise diagnosis, analyze your examinations and discuss with you the relevance of a PRP treatmentThis personalized approach allows us to define the best strategy, whether medical, orthobiological or surgical, according to your profile and your objectives.
