Platelet growth factors are proteins from the patient’s own plasma and platelets that promote tissue development.
Platelets are the blood cells responsible for blood clotting. These cells contain the so-called growth factors or signaling agents. We speak of rich plasma because the number of platelets has been multiplied several times by concentration processes.
How is the plasma rich in signaling agents obtained?
This procedure must be carried out under conditions of maximum sterility and with all the guarantees. The preparation time is between 20 and 30 minutes, and depending on the method used, platelets are concentrated between 2 and 10 times the basal blood level. 20-40 ml are extracted. venous blood, which is anticoagulated and centrifuged to separate its components by special devices. The concentrated plasma is activated for immediate application with very fine needles either subcutaneously, intradermally or intra-articularly.
Applications of platelet growth factors
The use of plasma rich in signaling agents is considered a revolution among the most advanced and novel therapies in healing and tissue regeneration. It is used in multiple areas of Medicine, but within Traumatology and Orthopedic Surgery its use in the following tissue regeneration processes stands out:
- Arthrosis and arthritis.
- Cartilage lesions
- Chondromalacia
- Tendon injuries
- Muscle injuries
- Ligament injuries
- Fracture healing (“fracture callus”)
- Treatment of ulcers.
Results of platelet growth factors
In general, it can be said that the results are very good when the indication is correct. For this it is necessary that a specialist in Traumatology performs an individual evaluation of each case in consultation and explains to the patient the alternatives and possibilities.