Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment

Do you have unresolving tendon problems? Perhaps platelet rich plasma (PRP)
can help!

The Cayuga Center for Sports Medicine and Athletic Performance is proud to offer PRP injections to our patients.

What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Platelet rich plasma is a concentration of growth factors and platelets from a small amount of your own blood. This therapy provides increased levels of growth factors that are thought to improve signaling and recruitment of cells to an injury site. The goal is to optimize the environment for healing and it has been used to assist in the treatment and recovery of many injuries.

How does the procedure work?
A small amount of your blood will be taken from a vein in your arm using a needle and a special syringe. The blood then goes through a rapid spinning process via a centrifuge which separates and also concentrates the platelets and growth factors. This concentrated solution is then delivered to the site of injury through an ultrasound guided injection. The ultrasound is used to make an accurate delivery of the plasma to the damaged area or tissues. The entire procedure usually takes about 20-30 minutes. Often Dr. Veigel will anesthetize the skin and surrounding tissues for patient comfort.

What are potential benefits of PRP treatment?
Patients can expect to see a significant improvement in symptoms and healing times may decrease up to 50%. Patients may also be able to eliminate the need for more traditional treatments such as medications, cortisone injections or surgery, as well as, a dramatic return of function.

What are the risks associated with this treatment?
This treatment utilizes your body's own natural products and nothing is added to it. Side effects are very uncommon. It is normal to have an increase of soreness for 3-5 days following the procedure. Dr Veigel may have you stop anti-inflammatory medication or blood thinners prior to the procedure, but other medicines may be prescribed to help with the initial soreness.

Will my insurance company cover this procedure?
While this therapy has been around for many years, many insurance companies still consider it experimental and deny coverage. Cayuga Sports Medicine will contact your insurance company prior to the PRP injection to confirm coverage. If the procedure is not covered then options can be discussed.

Am I a candidate for this treatment?
Speak with your physician about this treatment or make an appointment with Dr. Veigel. A thorough history and physical examination should take place. Appropriate diagnostic studies may also be necessary. Maximizing all treatment options such as physical therapy, medications, other injection techniques, or surgery may be required before considering this procedure.

How soon can I go back to regular physical activity?
This treatment is not a "quick fix" and is designed to promote long-term healing of the musculoskeletal injury. The process of PRP requires time and rehabilitation to allow the injury to heal. Through regular follow up visits, your doctor can determine when you are able to resume regular physical activities.

How do I find more information?
If you have questions about PRP injection and PRP therapy, please call the Cayuga Center Sports Medicine & Athletic Performance at (607)252-3580 or email jveigel@cayugamed.org.