Extra-venous use of autologous platelet concentrate: beginning of a new era of therapy of transfusion medicine?

Autologous infusion of blood platelets to induce healing of injured tissue is reported in several recent journals. The presence of many 'platelet-derived-factors' forms the basis of these studies. These studies have demonstrated improvement in 70-80% patients over a period of up to several months. We have identified the lapses in their techniques. We decided to undertake a small pilot study to test our use of "platelet concentrate" (U. S. P.) in patients of tendon injuries and also to establish a protocol for the extra-venous use of autologous blood platelets. We present, here, an improved technique of autologous platelet therapy in three groups of patients. Our results are compared with four earlier studies. Enhancement in clinical recovery of patients was achieved in shorter interval of time. We have concluded that use of "Platelet Concentrate" with its quality control tests, seems to be better in place of PRP and/or 'uncontrolled' platelet injection. Further, selection of patients for this therapy is crucial. Patients with acute bursitis do not appear ideal for this kind of therapy. However, chronic tendon injuries that are likely to worsen on corticosteroid injections can be treated with autologous platelets with excellent results. This appears to pave a new path for mesodermal regeneration and healing by extra venous use of platelet concentrate.