How to Mitigate Your Patients’ Burning Sensation During PRP Treatment
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has gained popularity in recent years for its potential to promote healing and regeneration in various medical conditions skin rejuvenation and hair loss. However, some patients experience a burning sensation during or after the PRP injection, which can be uncomfortable and discouraging.
One potential solution to alleviate this burning sensation is to add sodium bicarbonate to the PRP solution before injection along with an anesthetic. Sodium bicarbonate is a mild alkaline compound that can help neutralize the acidity of the PRP, which is thought to be the primary cause of the burning sensation. Other providers have also reported using low concentrations of lidocaine to help with dermal injection pain (1.5mL for 7mL of high dose PurePRP).
The Burning Sensation: Why It Happens
PRP is prepared by centrifuging a patient's own blood to concentrate the platelets and growth factors. During this process, the PRP becomes slightly acidic due to the AC sodium citrate. When this acidic PRP is injected into the treatment area, it can cause a temporary stinging or burning sensation as the tissue adjusts to the pH change.
The Role of Sodium Bicarbonate Sodium bicarbonate is a well-known antacid and pH buffer, commonly used to neutralize acid in the stomach and other parts of the body. By adding a small amount of sodium bicarbonate to the PRP solution (1.5mL of 8.4% sodium bicarb for 7mL of high dose PurePRP), the pH can be adjusted to a more neutral or slightly alkaline level, reducing the potential for a burning sensation upon injection.
Several studies have investigated the use of sodium bicarbonate in PRP therapy, and the results are promising. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2019 found that adding sodium bicarbonate to PRP significantly reduced the burning sensation during hair restoration procedures without affecting the efficacy of the treatment. [1]
Another study published in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery in 2020 evaluated the use of sodium bicarbonate-buffered PRP in facial rejuvenation treatments. The researchers reported that the addition of sodium bicarbonate effectively reduced the burning sensation and increased patient comfort during and after the procedure. [2]
Conclusion
While the addition of sodium bicarbonate appears to be a safe and effective way to mitigate the burning sensation associated with PRP therapy, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional and follow their guidance. Proper handling and preparation of the PRP solution, including the appropriate amount of sodium bicarbonate and anesthetic to be added, not to mention needle gauge (27g-30g) are crucial to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment.
CITATIONS:
[1] Puig, C. J., Ravanat, S., & Huart, M. (2019). Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Platelet-Rich Plasma With Sodium Bicarbonate Buffer in Hair Restoration. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 18(6), 1698-1705. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13137
[2] Sclafani, A. P., Kang, J., & Pham, T. T. (2020). Evaluation of Buffered Platelet-Rich Plasma in Facial Aesthetic Rejuvenation. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, 73(6), 1167-1174. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2020.01.021
04/05/2024