Most wounds heal on their own, but some don’t and need additional medical help. Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a groundbreaking treatment that nourishes wounds with the growth factors and proteins it needs to expedite the healing process.
No one plans to get hurt. But unfortunately, accidents happen daily, with many of them resulting in serious injuries. Wounds are one of the most common reasons people go to the emergency room.
While most wounds heal on their own, chronic wounds describe wounds that haven’t healed in three months. More than 6.5 million Americans are affected by chronic wounds.
Chronic wounds can lead to infection and more severe health problems. But sometimes no matter how much you try, chronic wounds need additional help to properly heal.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a groundbreaking treatment that offers faster and more effective wound healing. Southern Secrets Medical Spa provides PRP to individuals in Conroe, Texas and beyond who want to accelerate wound healing and make a faster recovery.
The science behind PRP
Your blood is composed of four elements: plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. At the heart of PRP is the hero of blood components – the platelet.
Platelets are tiny, plate-shaped cells that are in charge of wound healing and blood clotting. They are packed with growth factors and proteins that play a vital part in tissue repair and cell regeneration. When you experience an injury, platelets race to the wound to encourage the natural healing process.
PRP uses 5-10 times more platelets than traditional blood, making it an expedited way for your body to heal.
Meet the three-step process
Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a comprehensive treatment that is safe when performed by a skilled professional. Andrew Martin, MSN, APRN, FNP-C uses PRP to heal patients from a variety of wounds including lacerations, burns, and punctures. Here’s how it works:
1. Blood draw
Andrew starts the PRP process by collecting blood from your arm. Using an IV, Andrew draws approximately 2-4 tablespoons of blood to prepare the sample.
2. Centrifugation
Now the blood is ready to go through centrifugation. Centrifugation is a technique where your blood is placed on a device and spun at high speeds to separate its components based on density. The centrifuge allows the red blood cells to sink to the bottom while the plasma rises to the top, and the platelets collect in the middle layer.
3. Extraction and injection
Andrew extracts the platelets from the centrifuge and draws it into a syringe. Next, he administers it directly into the wound site and around the edges of the wound. Once the PRP treatment is finished, Andrew may cover the wound to encourage a clean healing environment.
Benefits of wound repair
PRP isn’t a new treatment. In fact, it’s been used in various medical fields, including orthopedics and dentistry, for years. However, PRP’s use for wound healing is gaining more attention for its potential to revolutionize the standard of care.
Benefits of PRP for wound healing include:
- Stimulates tissue repair
- Expedites the healing process
- Improves blood supply
- Reduces inflammation
- Treatment is low-risk with minimal side effects
Aside from wound-healing, PRP is frequently used in cosmetic treatments for stimulating hair growth, facial rejuvenation, and scar reduction therapy.
How many treatments do I need?
Most patients need 3-6 PRP treatments spaced about a month apart for the best results. It’s important to note that individual results vary depending on factors like the type of wound, severity of wound, and how well your body responds to treatment.
Learn more about PRP for wound healing today by calling 832-263-1300 or requesting an appointment online.