What is the term for Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) that is made into a gel?

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Last updated: June 25, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Platelet gel is the term for Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) that is made into a gel. When PRP is activated, it forms a gel-like substance, which is referred to as platelet gel, as mentioned in the study by Harrison et al. 1. This transformation occurs when PRP is activated, releasing its bioactive proteins, including multiple growth and differentiation factors. The resulting platelet gel serves as a temporary matrix to assist repair of the injured tissue.

Key Characteristics of Platelet Gel

  • It is a gel-like substance formed by activating PRP
  • It has a fibrin scaffold that traps platelets and their growth factors
  • It allows for a slower, more sustained release of bioactive proteins
  • It can be used as a three-dimensional scaffold to promote tissue healing and regeneration

Clinical Applications of Platelet Gel

  • Surgical procedures
  • Wound healing
  • Tissue regeneration The use of platelet gel has been discussed in the context of regenerative medicine, highlighting the need for standardization in the preparation and application of platelet-rich preparations, as emphasized by Harrison et al. 1.

From the Research

Definition of PRP Gel

  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) that is made into a gel is commonly referred to as platelet-rich gel (PRG) 2.
  • PRG is formed by activating PRP with a mixture of thrombin and calcium chloride, resulting in the release of numerous regulatory molecules to the injury site 2.

Formation of PRG

  • The activator for PRP is a mixture of thrombin and calcium chloride, which when combined with PRP, forms a platelet-rich gel (PRG) 2.
  • Alternatively, batroxobin can be used to induce gelation, which acts differently from thrombin and results in a slow release of growth factors 3.

Characteristics of PRG

  • PRG is a semisolid network of polymerized fibrin that embeds concentrate platelets 3.
  • The growth factor content in PRG includes PDGF, TGF-, VEGF, IGF, EGF, and antimicrobial proteins 2, 3.
  • The use of PRG is believed to create an optimal healing environment in a region of tissue injury 4.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

The use of platelet-rich plasma in orthopedic injuries.

Sports medicine and arthroscopy review, 2013

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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