Platelet Injections
Healing after an injury involves a well-orchestrated and complex series of events where proteins in the blood act as messengers to regulate the entire process. Many proteins involved in the healing process are derived from small cell fragments in the blood called platelets.
Platelets are small, colorless, cell fragments present in the blood. They are formed in the bone marrow and are freely passing through the bloodstream in a resting state. However, when an injury occurs, the platelets become activated and start to gather at the injury site to release beneficial proteins called growth factors. This is the beginning of the healing process.
For many years, blood components derived from the patient and then delivered to the site of injury have created growing interest for use in orthopedic procedures. New research and technology has expanded the application of this therapy for use in orthopedic procedures.
What are Platelet Injections?
These injections are a concentration of platelets and growth factors created from a small amount of your own blood or bone marrow. Increased levels of growth factors have the potential to improve signaling and recruitment of cells.
Frequently Asked Questions about this Treatment
What are the risks associated with this treatment?
This treatment uses your body’s own natural properties to treat your injury. Side effects are very uncommon.
Will my insurance cover this procedure?
While these treatments have been around for many years, many insurance companies still consider this treatment experimental and deny coverage. Your physician’s office will contact your insurance company to confirm if they will cover this procedure. If your insurance will not cover the treatment, your physician may discuss other options.
Where can I learn more?
To learn if you are a good candidate, please schedule a consultation with a Beacon physician.
How does the process work?
Your healthcare provider will recover a small amount of blood or bone marrow. This sample then goes through a rapid spinning process that separates and concentrates the platelets and other beneficial growth factors from the blood. The entire production process is usually done in less than 60 minutes.
Am I a candidate for this treatment?
Speak with your physician and ask if the treatment is right for you. Your physician will perform an examination to make a determination if the treatment would benefit you. If you are taking anti-inflammatory medications or blood thinners, your physician may temporarily discontinue the use of these until your treatment has taken place.
Schedule an introductory consultation with a Beacon physician to learn what treatment option is right for you. It is our goal to help you return to the sports and activities you love as soon as possible.
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