Platelet-Rich Plasma Activation and Preparation

Introduction to PRP Activation

• The recommended protocol for PRP activation should include either calcium chloride, autologous thrombin, a combination of both, or collagen type I as activating agents, with the choice depending on the specific clinical application and desired release kinetics of growth factors 1, 2

Blood Collection and Processing

• Collect blood using plastic tubes to avoid contact activation 3
• Use appropriate anticoagulants, such as trisodium citrate, ACD, or CPD, and never use EDTA as it causes platelet swelling and premature activation 4, 2
• Process blood at room temperature as soon as possible, preferably within 1 hour of collection 3
• For PRP preparation, centrifuge at low force (170-200g) for 10 minutes at room temperature for optimal platelet yield 2

Centrifugation and Storage

• For standard PRP, use a single low-speed centrifugation (170-200g for 10 minutes) 2
• Centrifugation should occur at controlled room temperature to avoid precipitation and cold activation 3
• Freshly prepared PRP should be used within 4 hours for optimal results 3
• Avoid storing PRP at 4°C as cold activation might occur prematurely 3

Clinical Application and Activation

• In some applications, collagen-rich tissues may activate PRP naturally, eliminating the need for pre-application activation 1, 5
• Document the activation procedure used, as this is considered an appropriate practice by expert consensus 6
• PRP preparations vary widely in content, purity, and biological properties, which impacts clinical efficacy 1, 7

Thawing Frozen PRP

• If using frozen PRP, thaw samples in a water bath at 37°C for 2-5 minutes (depending on volume) until completely thawed 3