What is “autologous conditioned plasma”?
Autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) is the body's own blood plasma, which is obtained from the patient's blood prior to treatment. The cellular components are separated by centrifugation. The remaining plasma, which contains growth factors and messenger substances, is then injected into tendons, muscles or joints. This is intended to initiate the body's own regeneration processes.
When is autologous conditioned plasma used?
Treatment with autologous conditioned plasma may be considered for various degenerative or inflammatory conditions of the musculoskeletal system. Examples include:
- ACP injections into the knee joint for osteoarthritis of the knee
- ACP injections for epicondylitis (“tennis elbow”)
- ACP injections for bursitis or tendonitis
- ACP injections into facet or sacroiliac joints for back pain
Procedure of an ACP treatment
The ACP treatment takes place on an outpatient basis. A small amount of blood is taken a few minutes before the treatment and processed in a centrifuge. The plasma obtained must then be injected into the affected area within a few minutes. This is done at the IISZ under ultrasound or X-ray control. The patient can leave the practice after a short follow-up. The effect of the treatment becomes apparent after a few days at the earliest. If there is only a partial improvement, the treatment can be repeated several times. However, if there is no lasting success after 2-3 treatments, your attending physician will reconsider the treatment strategy with you.
