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Biologics

PRP in the OR

What Is PRP?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a natural product made from your own blood. It contains a high concentration of platelets, which are blood cells that release growth factors to help your body heal injuries, reduce inflammation, and repair tissue.
To create PRP, a small amount of your blood is drawn and processed in a special machine to concentrate the platelets. This PRP is then injected into the injured area during surgery or as an injection afterward.

PRP can help your body heal better by:

  • Encouraging faster and stronger tissue repair
  • Reducing swelling and inflammation
  • Decreasing pain
  • Lowering the chance of reinjury
  • Supporting a quicker return to sports and activities

PRP can be helpful for many sports medicine conditions, including:

Meniscus Repair (Knee)

Meniscus tears can struggle to heal because of poor blood supply. PRP can deliver extra growth factors to help healing.
Research shows PRP may improve meniscus healing rates by 15–20% in some cases.

Cartilage Repair or Restoration (e.g., Osteochondral Allograft)

Cartilage has little ability to heal on its own. PRP can support new cartilage growth and better graft healing.
Studies show PRP can improve pain relief and function by 15–25% compared to surgery alone.

Bone Marrow Edema Syndrome & Fracture Healing

PRP may help reduce swelling inside bones and promote faster bone healing.
Early studies show reduced pain and improved function.

Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)

PRP may help cartilage repair procedures heal better in patients with OCD.

Tendon Repair / Tendinopathy Debridement

Tendons heal slowly. PRP can help tendon cells repair more effectively.
Studies show PRP can reduce pain and help patients return to activity about 20% faster.

Rotator Cuff Repair (Shoulder)

One of the most researched uses of PRP. It can help rotator cuff repairs heal stronger and lower re-tear rates.
PRP may reduce the chance of a re-tear by 10–20% in some patients.

Yes! PRP comes from your own blood, so there is no risk of rejection or disease transmission. Side effects are rare but may include temporary swelling, bruising, or soreness at the injection site.

PRP works best when combined with surgery or other treatments — it’s not a standalone fix. Your surgeon will talk with you about whether PRP could benefit your specific condition and healing goals.

If you’d like to learn more about how PRP could help you heal stronger and faster, please ask your surgeon or any member of our team. We’re here to help you get back to doing what you love.


References:

  • Hurley ET, et al. AJSM, 2021 — PRP for rotator cuff repair
  • Pujol N, et al. Orthop J Sports Med, 2020 — PRP for meniscus repair
  • Campbell KA, et al. Arthroscopy, 2019 — PRP for cartilage restoration
  • Filardo G, et al. Sports Med, 2018 — PRP for tendon injuries
  • Kovachev N, et al. J Orthop Surg Res, 2021 — PRP for bone marrow edema
At a Glance

Dr. Brian Waterman, MD

  • Chief & Fellowship Director, Sports Medicine, Wake Forest
  • Team Physician, Wake Forest University, Chicago White Sox
  • Military affiliation/Decorated military officer and surgeon
  • Learn more

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