Regenerative Injection Therapy (PRP)
For many orthopedic injuries and conditions, Dr. Alan Lazar utilizes an alternative in-office treatment known as Regenerative Injection Therapy using Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections with stem cells from fat. Currently, Dr. Lazar is one of only several physicians in the United States who is performing in-office mini liposuction – usually in the abdomen – to extract stem cells from fat. This “fat graft” is an excellent source of stem cells. Dr. Lazar combines these stem cells with blood platelets to create a PRP injection.
For more information about Platelet Regeneration Therapy in Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, Florida, please call 954-476-9494 or request an appointment online at Alan M. Lazar, MD, FACS.
How Does Regenerative Injection Therapy Work?
Regenerative Injection Therapy is a new non-operative treatment that enhances surgical repair and provides an option for orthopedic conditions that have traditionally required surgery or other extensive procedures. Using the patient’s own blood, similar to a lab test, the blood is placed in a special machine that spins the blood at high speeds, which separates the platelets from the other blood components. The platelets are then concentrated and re-injected into the injured area or arthritic joint. In turn, the platelets release substances known as growth factors that lead to improved natural tissue healing.
Platelets initiate repair and attract the assistance of stem cells. Regenerative injection therapy works by releasing the growth factors in an injured site or arthritic joint. The injected platelets release the growth factors and facilitate the process of regeneration and remodeling of the damaged area. This process is known as the “healing process.”
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Why use your own platelets?
Platelets are tiny cells that are critical to healing. They are the body’s primary source of bioactive tissue growth factors. The platelets contain thousands of growth factors, which include:
- Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF)
- Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PGDF)
- Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β)
- Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)
- Insulin Growth Factor (IGF)
- Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (BFGF)
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)
Together, these compounds control and regulate your natural healing process in response to injury and degenerative changes. By concentrating these growth factors and injecting them at the site of injury, a robust healing response is achieved.
Sometimes, a fibrin matrix is used with PRP to bridge the gap of a severely injured ligament or tendon. This provides scaffolding for new collagen to form along the damaged ligaments or tendons. This process allows even a severely damaged tissue to heal.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) also attracts Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). MSCs are multi-potent stem cells that can differentiate into a variety of cell types during tissue repair processes. Cell types that MSCs have been shown to differentiate into include collagen secreting cells, bone forming osteoblasts and cartilage forming chondrocytes. Together these cells have the potential of rejuvenating tissues damaged by injury, degenerative changes, and osteoarthritis.
The Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) process concentrates fibrin, mesenchymal stem cells, and platelets so that each cubic millimeter of solution contains 1.5 to 2 million platelets, resulting in up to a five-fold increase in platelets and bioactive growth factors. Because it is so concentrated, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) acts as a potent tissue growth stimulant, amplifying the natural process of tissue repair and healing.
Studies show that Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) induces the production of new collagen by the fibroblasts, bone and cartilage cells at the site of the injection, rebuilding the joint cartilage and strengthening injured ligaments and tendons. This new collagen is naturally incorporated directly into your existing cartilage and ligaments, making them thicker, stronger and more elastic.
Learn more about PRP therapy in our Patient Education Library.
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What is a Stem Cell Transfer?
Stem cell transfer is a procedure done in the office setting where blood from bone marrow is extracted, filtered, and the stem cells are utilized to grow cartilage in an arthritic joint. These stem cells grow and develop into cartilage and are called autologous mesenchymal stem cells. Stem cells are being utilized to treat arthritis and other conditions such as tendon and ligament tears as well as meniscal tears.
Another excellent source of stem cells is from a fat graft. In the office, mini liposuction is done usually in the abdomen and the stem cells are extracted from the fat and utilized with the platelets. Other times, stem cells from bone marrow and fat are used in combination with the platelets depending on the severity of the condition.
Go back to top
What is the Purpose of Mini Liposuction?
A recent study determined that fat obtained from liposuction produced potent stem cells, which are now used to treat osteoarthritis and multiple orthopedic problems. These are autologous stem cells and have nothing to do with embryos or embryonic research.
Stem cells have the unique capacity to self-replicate throughout our lives and to change into cells of various types. This new method is much more efficient than a previous practice that used skin cells. Dr. Lazar is successfully utilizing this new method of obtaining potent mesenchymal stem cells derived from fat from the latest, state-of-the art, sterile, in-office Liposuction procedures.
Fat from our body is a great source of adult mesenchymal stem cells which can also be found in bone marrow.
Another in-office treatment that we offer is utilization of mesenchymal stem cells in conjunction with Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP). This can be done in an office setting, or if sedation is preferred, this procedure can be done at an outpatient surgical facility.
Autologous (derived from patient) stem cells are obtained from the bone marrow by placing a needle in the iliac crest. The collection contains a large amount of stem cells as this is typically utilized to treat osteoarthritis. Also, stem cells can be obtained by the aspiration of fat from your own body in conjunction with blood platelets. The combination of stem cells and platelets are injected into the area that is injured, such as an osteoarthritic joint where new cartilage growth occurs. This procedure can be done either by itself or in conjunction with a surgical procedure to enhance the healing process.
The growth factors from the platelets and the stem cells function to repair damaged tissue and they both participate in the repair process. It takes approximately six weeks for significant repair to occur where the pain is diminished and stress activity can be resumed at the previous desired level, but it really takes two to three months for complete recovery to occur.
Go back to top
Which Orthopaedic Conditions is PRP Used to Treat?
Medical researchers are reporting remarkable results using PRP in the treatment of common injuries, including:
- tendonitis
- the regeneration of cartilage in osteoarthritis of the thumbs, knees and hips
- non-surgical repair of rotator cuff tears
Published studies show:
- restoration and smoothing of roughened cartilage
- improved range of motion
- resolution of pain in osteoarthritis of hips, knees and shoulders.
Many other conditions respond to prolotherapy with PRP, including injuries to the shoulders, knees, back, neck, jaw, elbows, hands, hips, ankles and feet. Dr. Lazar commonly uses platelet injections on tendons and ligaments through the body, including:
- Sports injuries, including tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
- Tendonitis
- Ligament and meniscal tears
- Spine conditions
- Arthritic joints
- Rotator cuff tear of the shoulder
- Labral tears of the shoulder
- Osteoarthritis of the hip, knee, and shoulder
- Overuse syndromes
Go back to top
Is PRP Safe?
Yes.
Autologous (patient derived) PRP has been used for over 30 years as an aid in recovery following certain surgical, orthopaedic and dental procedures. There are thousands of research articles published on the safety of PRP. Because your own blood is used, there is no risk of a transmissible infection and a very low risk of allergic reaction.
Go back to top
How many treatments are required?
The response to treatment varies. Most patients require two treatments, but some patients require more. Patients are usually evaluated to see how they will respond to the injection. For more severe problems, additional injections may be necessary. Some people respond immediately, but most of the time, it takes approximately six weeks to respond to the treatment. For severe problems, some people require more than two treatments.
Go back to top
Is PRP right for me?
If you suffer from arthritis, an injured ligament, or tendon injury, and traditional methods have not provided relief, then PRP therapy may be the solution. The procedure is less aggressive and less expensive than surgery. It will heal tissue with minimal or no scarring and alleviates further degeneration of the tissues. There will be an initial evaluation with Dr. Lazar to see if PRP therapy is right for you.
Go back to top
Are there any special instructions?
You are restricted from the use of non-steroid anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) one week prior to the procedure and one month after. Initially, the procedure may cause some localized soreness and discomfort. Most patients only require some extra-strength Tylenol to help with the pain. Ice and heat may be applied to the area as needed.
Go back to top
What should you expect after the injection?
After the injection, there is an increasing discomfort for approximately 10 days. The positive effects of the injection can occur within a week after the injection. This usually happens with torn tendons and ligaments and bursitis. With an osteoarthritic condition, it takes about six weeks to respond. We recommend normal activity with no extra exercise for the first 48 hours. After 10-12 days, start light exercise without stressful activity for six weeks. Returning to stressful activity before six weeks will result incomplete healing of the treated tissue.
Download the brochure: Regenerative Injection Therapy
Click here to Watch the video.
Have a question about PRP? Click here to submit your question to Dr. Lazar
Go back to Treatments main page
Regenerative Injection Therapy (PRP)
For many orthopedic injuries and conditions, Dr. Alan Lazar utilizes an alternative in-office treatment known as Regenerative Injection Therapy using Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections with stem cells from fat. Currently, Dr. Lazar is one of only several physicians in the United States who is performing in-office mini liposuction – usually in the abdomen – to extract stem cells from fat. This “fat graft” is an excellent source of stem cells. Dr. Lazar combines these stem cells with blood platelets to create a PRP injection.
For more information about Platelet Regeneration Therapy in Plantation, Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, Florida, please call 954-476-9494 or request an appointment online at Alan M. Lazar, MD, FACS.
How Does Regenerative Injection Therapy Work?
Regenerative Injection Therapy is a new non-operative treatment that enhances surgical repair and provides an option for orthopedic conditions that have traditionally required surgery or other extensive procedures. Using the patient’s own blood, similar to a lab test, the blood is placed in a special machine that spins the blood at high speeds, which separates the platelets from the other blood components. The platelets are then concentrated and re-injected into the injured area or arthritic joint. In turn, the platelets release substances known as growth factors that lead to improved natural tissue healing.
Platelets initiate repair and attract the assistance of stem cells. Regenerative injection therapy works by releasing the growth factors in an injured site or arthritic joint. The injected platelets release the growth factors and facilitate the process of regeneration and remodeling of the damaged area. This process is known as the “healing process.”
Go back to top
Why use your own platelets?
Platelets are tiny cells that are critical to healing. They are the body’s primary source of bioactive tissue growth factors. The platelets contain thousands of growth factors, which include:
- Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF)
- Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PGDF)
- Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β)
- Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF)
- Insulin Growth Factor (IGF)
- Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (BFGF)
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)
Together, these compounds control and regulate your natural healing process in response to injury and degenerative changes. By concentrating these growth factors and injecting them at the site of injury, a robust healing response is achieved.
Sometimes, a fibrin matrix is used with PRP to bridge the gap of a severely injured ligament or tendon. This provides scaffolding for new collagen to form along the damaged ligaments or tendons. This process allows even a severely damaged tissue to heal.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) also attracts Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). MSCs are multi-potent stem cells that can differentiate into a variety of cell types during tissue repair processes. Cell types that MSCs have been shown to differentiate into include collagen secreting cells, bone forming osteoblasts and cartilage forming chondrocytes. Together these cells have the potential of rejuvenating tissues damaged by injury, degenerative changes, and osteoarthritis.
The Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) process concentrates fibrin, mesenchymal stem cells, and platelets so that each cubic millimeter of solution contains 1.5 to 2 million platelets, resulting in up to a five-fold increase in platelets and bioactive growth factors. Because it is so concentrated, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) acts as a potent tissue growth stimulant, amplifying the natural process of tissue repair and healing.
Studies show that Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) induces the production of new collagen by the fibroblasts, bone and cartilage cells at the site of the injection, rebuilding the joint cartilage and strengthening injured ligaments and tendons. This new collagen is naturally incorporated directly into your existing cartilage and ligaments, making them thicker, stronger and more elastic.
Learn more about PRP therapy in our Patient Education Library.
Go back to top
What is a Stem Cell Transfer?
Stem cell transfer is a procedure done in the office setting where blood from bone marrow is extracted, filtered, and the stem cells are utilized to grow cartilage in an arthritic joint. These stem cells grow and develop into cartilage and are called autologous mesenchymal stem cells. Stem cells are being utilized to treat arthritis and other conditions such as tendon and ligament tears as well as meniscal tears.
Another excellent source of stem cells is from a fat graft. In the office, mini liposuction is done usually in the abdomen and the stem cells are extracted from the fat and utilized with the platelets. Other times, stem cells from bone marrow and fat are used in combination with the platelets depending on the severity of the condition.
Go back to top
What is the Purpose of Mini Liposuction?
A recent study determined that fat obtained from liposuction produced potent stem cells, which are now used to treat osteoarthritis and multiple orthopedic problems. These are autologous stem cells and have nothing to do with embryos or embryonic research.
Stem cells have the unique capacity to self-replicate throughout our lives and to change into cells of various types. This new method is much more efficient than a previous practice that used skin cells. Dr. Lazar is successfully utilizing this new method of obtaining potent mesenchymal stem cells derived from fat from the latest, state-of-the art, sterile, in-office Liposuction procedures.
Fat from our body is a great source of adult mesenchymal stem cells which can also be found in bone marrow.
Another in-office treatment that we offer is utilization of mesenchymal stem cells in conjunction with Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP). This can be done in an office setting, or if sedation is preferred, this procedure can be done at an outpatient surgical facility.
Autologous (derived from patient) stem cells are obtained from the bone marrow by placing a needle in the iliac crest. The collection contains a large amount of stem cells as this is typically utilized to treat osteoarthritis. Also, stem cells can be obtained by the aspiration of fat from your own body in conjunction with blood platelets. The combination of stem cells and platelets are injected into the area that is injured, such as an osteoarthritic joint where new cartilage growth occurs. This procedure can be done either by itself or in conjunction with a surgical procedure to enhance the healing process.
The growth factors from the platelets and the stem cells function to repair damaged tissue and they both participate in the repair process. It takes approximately six weeks for significant repair to occur where the pain is diminished and stress activity can be resumed at the previous desired level, but it really takes two to three months for complete recovery to occur.
Go back to top
Which Orthopaedic Conditions is PRP Used to Treat?
Medical researchers are reporting remarkable results using PRP in the treatment of common injuries, including:
- tendonitis
- the regeneration of cartilage in osteoarthritis of the thumbs, knees and hips
- non-surgical repair of rotator cuff tears
Published studies show:
- restoration and smoothing of roughened cartilage
- improved range of motion
- resolution of pain in osteoarthritis of hips, knees and shoulders.
Many other conditions respond to prolotherapy with PRP, including injuries to the shoulders, knees, back, neck, jaw, elbows, hands, hips, ankles and feet. Dr. Lazar commonly uses platelet injections on tendons and ligaments through the body, including:
- Sports injuries, including tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
- Tendonitis
- Ligament and meniscal tears
- Spine conditions
- Arthritic joints
- Rotator cuff tear of the shoulder
- Labral tears of the shoulder
- Osteoarthritis of the hip, knee, and shoulder
- Overuse syndromes
Go back to top
Is PRP Safe?
Yes.
Autologous (patient derived) PRP has been used for over 30 years as an aid in recovery following certain surgical, orthopaedic and dental procedures. There are thousands of research articles published on the safety of PRP. Because your own blood is used, there is no risk of a transmissible infection and a very low risk of allergic reaction.
Go back to top
How many treatments are required?
The response to treatment varies. Most patients require two treatments, but some patients require more. Patients are usually evaluated to see how they will respond to the injection. For more severe problems, additional injections may be necessary. Some people respond immediately, but most of the time, it takes approximately six weeks to respond to the treatment. For severe problems, some people require more than two treatments.
Go back to top
Is PRP right for me?
If you suffer from arthritis, an injured ligament, or tendon injury, and traditional methods have not provided relief, then PRP therapy may be the solution. The procedure is less aggressive and less expensive than surgery. It will heal tissue with minimal or no scarring and alleviates further degeneration of the tissues. There will be an initial evaluation with Dr. Lazar to see if PRP therapy is right for you.
Go back to top
Are there any special instructions?
You are restricted from the use of non-steroid anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) one week prior to the procedure and one month after. Initially, the procedure may cause some localized soreness and discomfort. Most patients only require some extra-strength Tylenol to help with the pain. Ice and heat may be applied to the area as needed.
Go back to top
What should you expect after the injection?
After the injection, there is an increasing discomfort for approximately 10 days. The positive effects of the injection can occur within a week after the injection. This usually happens with torn tendons and ligaments and bursitis. With an osteoarthritic condition, it takes about six weeks to respond. We recommend normal activity with no extra exercise for the first 48 hours. After 10-12 days, start light exercise without stressful activity for six weeks. Returning to stressful activity before six weeks will result incomplete healing of the treated tissue.
Download the brochure: Regenerative Injection Therapy
Click here to Watch the video.
Have a question about PRP? Click here to submit your question to Dr. Lazar
Go back to Treatments main page