PRP, generally known as Platelet-Rich Plasma injection, is one of the best methods to cure many musculoskeletal issues in canines. But what exactly is PRP? And how much does it cost?
Plasma is generally known as the liquid component of blood, which contains platelets and RBCs (Red blood cells). Platelet-rich plasma, often known as PRP, is extracted from the patient’s own blood sample.
Experts use a method that results in the plasma having a significantly more significant proportion of platelets than is typical.
Plasma is rich in growth factors & proteins, both of which can speed up the healing process of damaged tendons and ligaments and stimulate cartilage or bone repair (especially healing stem cells, white blood cells, and bone marrow.
Injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) help lessen the pain caused by arthritis by bringing inflammation throughout the body under control. Injuries to the tendons or ligaments may also be helped by their use.
Dogs who have chronic, sluggish wounds or may not heal at all may potentially benefit from PRP treatment because it enhances tissue regeneration.
Tip: PRP is also the best alternative to stem cell treatment.
Cost of PRP injection in dogs
The price of a single platelet-rich plasma therapy will typically fall anywhere between $700 and $2000. Additionally, affected dogs might need to undergo therapy more than once.
The price may change based on the geographic area, the type of facilities available, and the attending physician’s experience level.
It is also essential to remember that just a select few insurance policies will cover the expense of PRP therapy.
How is PRP prepared?
Collecting blood from the pup is the first step in the production of platelet-rich plasma. The volume of blood that is collected is proportional to both the size of the dog and the severity of the wound.
Once the blood has been extracted, the plasma will be separated from the platelets by centrifuging the blood, and the platelets will be concentrated.
Plasma containing all of the essential components required for the therapy can be obtained by the veterinarian using one of these techniques.
The entire process of administering this therapy typically takes one hour, and patients might need to be sedated or given anesthesia for the operation.
Platelet-rich plasma is a therapy that is often only required to be administered once to a patient; however, some dogs may require multiple treatments depending on the severity of their ailment. After receiving treatment with PRP, patients may need to limit their movement for several days, although this restriction should only be temporary.
After that, no limits are placed on your pup’s freedom of movement or activities.
How many PRP injections your canine companion will need in the case of muscle or tendon injury?
PRP may be a less intrusive alternative to surgery for tendon and muscle problems that have been present for a long time.
Experts recommend giving two injections to your pup three to four weeks apart from one another to treat tendon or muscle damage.
After receiving PRP treatment, how do you care for your furry buddy?
After your pet has had PRP therapy, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- After receiving an injection, it is common to have pain and a limp for up to one week. In order for the more than twenty proteins included in PRP to be effective, the plasma cells must provoke an inflammatory reaction, which may result in pain for your pet.
- During the first month and a half, your pet’s activity level should be kept to a minimum (such as 7-minute leash walks). We urge you to walk your pet cautiously and deliberately during this time. After that, your pet will be free to engage in whatever level of activity she chooses.
- Although injections can be done as frequently as every two weeks, the majority of pets only come in for a “refresh” every six to twelve months.
- Because platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is manufactured using your pet’s blood, the body has no physiological reason to reject it. This treatment and procedure are risk-free, and the only side effects that should occur are temporary limping or pain. There are no other potential dangers.
- PRP therapy is not a miracle solution for all conditions, but around 82% of pets show signs/symptoms of improvement within the first few days of treatment. It may take numerous treatments for an animal with an old injury or a chronic condition, such as arthritis, before a noticeable change may be seen in their condition. Help your vet give the best possible care for your pet by keeping a careful record of the vitamins, Regenerative medicine/veterinary medicine, and therapies that work the best for your animal companion.
Are PRP injections a risky procedure?
Injections are highly risk-free, with few potential adverse effects or problems. Due to the clean environment in which the surgery is carried out, the likelihood of contracting an infection is relatively low.
There is no possibility of the PRP Injection being rejected or illness being passed on to your dog because it is made from the dog’s blood.
In what conditions PRP is helpful for dogs?
Platelet-Rich Plasma can also help treat and heal injuries, and it’s used in managing chronic illnesses.
Your pet’s growth toward a joint, tendon, or ligament that is free of pain may be aided by the therapy, which also has the potential to increase in a regenerative way in the following areas:
- Tenosynovitis
- Treatment of Wounds
- Healing After Surgical Procedures
- Osteoarthritis
- General Inflammation
PRP has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life of your pet, making it possible for the two of you to have more meaningful moments together.
Conclusion
The treatment of pets with platelet-rich plasma can be explained in the simplest of terms as follows: your pet’s blood is separated into smaller portions to extract healthy proteins.
These proteins are then put back into your pet to assist him or her in regenerating healthy cells and developing or restoring muscle movement.
Additionally, PRP costs for one injection in the pet are usually around $700 to $2000.
