Platelet Rich Plasma - Platelet Counts and Application - A Literature Review

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a novel method of using plasma concentrated with platelets for wound healing and tissue regeneration. Platelet rich plasma is prepared from the venous blood using a differential centrifugation technique. It involves a separation spin and a concentration spin, yielding platelet rich plasma. PRP products have been classified into 4 types depending upon major cell constituent and fibrin density upon activation. These are as follows: Pure PRP, Leukocyte and PRP, Pure PRF, Leukocyte and PRF. PRF differs from PRP in that it is rich in a high density fibrin network after activation. PRP is abundant in a variety of growth factors such as VEGF, PDGF, TGF, EGF, and Interleukin-1. Literature consists of reports by different authors about the platelet yield of PRP centrifuged by different systems. A number of factors have also been quoted to influence the platelet concentration in platelet rich plasma. Hence, the aim of this review is to discuss the platelet concentration in PRP centrifuged by different systems and to observe for variations if any.