부산대학교 도서관

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous plasma suspension enriched with a supraphysiologic concentrate of platelets, isolated through a process of centrifugation. Administered locally (usually by injection or direct application) to areas of injury, PRP contains a high density of growth factors, which are believed to potentiate the body’s natural regenerative processes. Over the past 20 years, interest in PRP therapy has grown exponentially, as it offers a relatively safe, autologous treatment modality. It has gained particular popularity for a wide variety of musculoskeletal pathologies. There is a growing body of scientific literature that is giving further insight into PRP’s therapeutic effects. This chapter will review the history, preparation techniques, basic science justifications, current clinical evidence, as well as procedural considerations for the therapeutic use of PRP.