Combined Use of PRP and Adipose Stem Cells in Aesthetic Surgery
To highlight the scientific rationale and the clinical safety/efficacy associated with the combined use of platelet rich plasma (PRP) and adipose derived stem cells at the point-of-care.
Methods/Technique:
The centrifugation of whole blood results in a separation of its components and isolation of platelet rich plasma (PRP). PRP has many cytokines and growth factors which stimulate tissue regeneration. PRP also has a very potent anti-inflammatory effect, clinically noted to be more efficacious than steroids and without destruction of tissue associated with steroids.
Platelet rich plasma (PRP) also has antibiotic properties, with autologous PRP gels FDA approved for topical anti-infective wound care dressings. In addition to its antibiotic properties, PRP has also been shown to stimulate angiogenesis, neovascularization and engraftment of adipose derived stem cells (ASC). PRP has also been shown to minimize ASC apoptosis.
Until recently, PRP was used alone or in combination with bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells for treatment of osteoarthritis and many other musculoskeletal disorders. MSC point-of-care therapies are trending away from bone marrow and towards the utilization of adipose derived stem cells. As stated previously, adipose derived stem cells are great in number, easy to harvest and clinically very effective.
While the concept of combining PRP with adipose tissue is relatively new in the specialty of plastic surgery, basic science and clinical results strongly support this concept. Regulatory compliance will also be included to keep practitioners out of trouble and on the right track.
Methods and technique of harvesting, processing and combining will be reviewed in detail. Clinical indications will also be discussed.
Results/Complications:
This lecture will highlight the results and complications of platelet rich plasma (PRP) and adipose derived stem cells (ASC) used in a combined fashion at the point-of-care for aesthetic applications. The concept and clinical examples of micro-needling for cutaneous delivery of these biologics will also be included.
Conclusion:
The combined use of platelet rich plasma with minimally manipulated adipose tissue containing a high volume of mesenchymal stem cells is safe, efficacious and compliant with regulatory standards.