Is there a big difference in effectiveness of PRP (for hair) using a system like Eclipse, Emcyte, etc vs just a centrifuge?

Question

I went to a clinic offering PRP for hair. I asked which system they use and was told "I don't use any special system, I just spin the blood, extract the plasma and inject it by hand. I've done this for 5 years and it works." Afraid it works badly I declined. Was I right? Is a system really important factor, with a big difference in the quality of the plasma depending on the centrifuge and system, or can a good result be achieved with just a centrifuge by a qualified person? Thanks for your advice

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

This  is a very thoughtful question. When one spins blood in diagnostic tubes there are ingredients (ficol and endotoxins) that are included that are not meant for injection into the body. The instructions that come with the diagnostic tubes specifically mention that it is not  FDA approved for re injection. Furthermore,it is not possible to completely separate out the red and white cells which are not helpful for hair. Since the tubes are not coated with silicone, the platelet yield from these tubes is decreased as platelets stick to the side of the tube. In my opinion, avoid practitioners who are not using FDA-approved tubes. Find a PRP expert. Ask to see photos.

Daniel Bahnmiller, DO · Answer

Studies show that the optimal platelet range is 7-9%, especially for hair growth.  The System we use in our clinic is Biomet, since studies by independent researchers show that it collects consistently around 9% platelets.  The highest and most effective range that we know.  The problem is that the tubes cost around $150-$300 each, which adds to the cost of your procedure.  But if you want optimal results, it is important.

Justin Rome, MD · Answer

In my experience the most important factor is the volume of PRP injected.  I typically inject 6cc of PRP and discard the PPP (platelet poor plasma), then alternate months between this and microneedling with ATPv.  I find this works really well for the long term!

Craig Austin, MD · Answer

There are several companies that make PRP kits for physicians, and we suggest you make sure your physician is using an FDA approved tube. We use Eclipse.  The tubes are sanitary and are designed to ensure we get the most platelets from the procedure.  There is honestly not enough research whether Eclipse or another manufacturer makes better tubes, but from my experience Eclipse PRP tubes work very well.  Typically 3-5 treatments are needed, and many patients notice that they stop losing hair after a first or second treatment, and begin re-growing hair between 3rd-5th treatment.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

The reality is we don't really know what technique is truly better. Every doctor has 'their' system. PRP cost to the doctor ranges from really inexpensive to really expensive ($20 dollars to $500 or more). Marketing needs to be factored in there too. Some PRP clinics take 10 mL of blood from the patient and some take 180 mL of blood from the patient. 10 mL spinning in the most wonderful system is still probably not going to add up to 180 mL spinning in a high school centrifuge.  The field is still much in need of good studies, let alone great studies. There could be differences we just don’t know

Is there a big difference in effectiveness of PRP (for hair) using a system like Eclipse, Emcyte, etc vs just a centrifuge?

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