Platelet Lysate (PL)

What is platelet lysate?

Platelet lysate (PL) is a pure acellular liquid created from a patients’ platelets that is saturated in anti-inflammatory growth factors and cytokines. It has a high anti-inflammatory profile and contains small proteins that support nerve health.

What conditions does PL treat?

A clear pure liquid by nature, PL is optimal for injecting into the sheaths of compressed or scarred nerves in the extremities (also known as nerve hydro dissection).

Platelet lysate is often administered to hydrodissect dysfunctional fascia, especially when it is accompanied by chronic muscle tension, trigger points, or myofascial pain syndrome (MFPS). Our practitioners may elect to use it in lieu of a steroid epidural when treating those with pinched spinal nerves from disc herniations of stenosis. Individuals with arthritis and persistent fluid in the joint (effusion) have benefitted from receiving PL injections as well. Additionally, platelet lysate has shown effectiveness when addressing:

  • Lumbar or cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerves of the spine)
  • Resistant myofascial pain syndrome (MFPS) with prominent fascia component
  • Occipital neuralgia
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome or brachial plexus trauma neuralgia
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow or wrist
  • Sciatica
  • Pudendal neuralgia and other pelvic neuropathies
  • Meralgia paresthetica and other sensory neuropathies of the lower extremity
  • Peroneal neuropathy
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Knee arthritis with recurrent swelling or effusions

What are the benefits of platelet lysate?

  • Promotes faster recovery by delivering concentrated growth factors directly to injured tissues
  • Can reduce inflammation and pain at the site of damage
  • Used to support the repair of damaged cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and spinal structures
  • Provides a nonsurgical, minimally invasive treatment option with minimal downtime compared to traditional procedures
  • Has the potential to deliver relief by addressing the underlying injury, rather than by masking symptoms
  • Administered to help restore mobility and strength in joints affected by injury or degeneration
  • Using the patient’s own blood components, there is minimal risk of adverse reactions
  • Can be combined with physical therapy or other regenerative techniques to optimize outcomes

What are the meaningful differences between PL and PRP?

Unlike PRP, platelet lysate contains no platelets: Platelet lysate releases growth factors all at once, rather than over an extended period of time. And many patients report a quicker recovery period with less intense post-procedure discomfort; this difference is likely attributed to PL’s potent anti-inflammatory characteristics.

What to expect during platelet lysate therapy

The process begins with a thorough physical examination and detailed imaging to indicate the region or regions for treatment. A small amount of blood is drawn from the patient, the quantity collected depending on the treatment area and the amount of lysate required. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge and spun at a high speed to separate its components based on density. This practice isolates the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from red blood cells and other components. The PRP is processed to break open (lyse) the platelets, releasing their concentrated growth factors and proteins. The platelet lysate is filtered to remove cellular debris and ensure a pure and sterile solution for injection.
We clean the treatment area and apply a topical local anesthetic prior to injection. (Oral nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is also available for anxious patients). Depending on the complexity of the injury, the procedure generally takes 30 – 60 minutes.

It’s common for patients to experience some mild, yet tolerable discomfort, swelling and / or stiffness during treatment and / or for a few days afterwards. These symptoms are usually temporary and self-resolving. Patients can typically resume their regular activities after and between treatment sessions.

Are there side effects associated with platelet lysate?

Similar to PRP, PL can create temporary soreness and swelling in the first 72 hours following treatment; however, many patients report a quicker recovery period with less intense post-procedure discomfort when compared to PRP. (This difference is likely attributed to PL’S potent anti-inflammatory characteristics.)

When can I expect results from PL?

PL can engage the body’s natural healing process. Results typically surface within a few weeks of receiving treatment, with continued improvement over time. Some individuals experience immediate relief, due to the concentrated growth factors released by the lysate.

To optimize outcomes, patients should follow their prescribed customized treatment plan and aftercare guidelines.

Is platelet lysate covered by insurance?

Although not covered by insurance at the Orthohealing Center, PL is a cost-effective treatment option.

Regenerative Medicine to Keep You Moving