Platelet Poor Plasma (PPP)
Los Angeles
WHAT IS PLATELET POOR PLASMA?
Platelet poor plasma (PPP) is a fraction of plasma that contains reduced platelet concentrations that biochemically provide electrolytes, albumin, cytokines, and growth factors. It has lower inflammatory potential but research has shown that it can support tissue remodeling, assist with the modulation of pain pathways, and support tissue homeostasis.
| Growth factors | Origins | Physiological effects |
|---|---|---|
| PDGF | Neuronal cells, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, vascular cells | Induces stem cell proliferation, neuroprotection, promotes cell migration and proliferation |
| TGF-β | β cells, T cells, dendritic cells, macrophages | Promoting cell proliferation and differentiation, assist with tissue repair and fibrosis, inhibit the activation of immune cells |
| VEGF | Endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, platelets, neutrophils, macrophages | Angiogenesis and vascular repair, tissue repair, neuroprotection |
| IGF-1 | Hepatic stellate cells, osteoblasts, fibroblasts, macrophages | Promotes growth, cell differentiation, cell proliferation |
| bFGF | Endothelial cells, bone cells | Induction of neovascularization and neurotrophy |
| EGF | Vascular smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, neutrophils, macrophages | Promotes wound healing, anti-inflammatory effects |
HOW DOES PPP WORK?
Platelet poor plasma (PPP) can assist the body to create a fibrin scaffold in tissue that can support cellular migration, tissue organization, and the natural healing processes. Research has also shown that PPP also contains cytokines and proteins such as albumin, immunoglobulins, and complement proteins that can support the reduction of inflammation and help provide an analgesic effect by down-regulating nociceptive signaling.
The growth factors provided from PPP can assist with tissue repair through the production and organization of new collagen and extracellular matrix, promote formation of new blood vessels helping with nutrient and oxygen flow, recruiting stem cells, and support the modulation of pain and inflammation.
BENEFITS OF PPP
Platelet poor plasma (PPP) is a natural, non-surgical therapy that can support the body with tissue repair and help improve the quality of tissue fibers formed. Recent research studies have shown that it may be more superior than PRP with the quality of muscle repair and muscle fiber organization after injury. Clinically, PPP has shown to be less inflammatory than PRP and may be more preferred in certain situations for this quality.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR PPP?
Individuals interested in supporting their body’s natural healing and recovery processes may wish to explore PPP therapy. This therapy may be considered for people when they have already explored other interventions such as rest, activity modification, physical therapy, along with other supportive measures. PPP may be considered by people looking for a non-surgical approach as part of their musculoskeletal or recovery plan. Candidates may be seeking an alternative to surgery or may already be recovering from surgery. A formal consultation with Dr. Yoon is recommended to review the individual’s history, current condition, imaging, and goals to determine if PPP therapy is appropriate.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT WITH PPP?
The consultation with Dr. Yoon will consist of a thorough evaluation and discussion. If PPP therapy is pursued, Dr. Yoon’s office will provide pre- and post- treatment handouts. Because each patient and injury is different, expected outcomes and recovery recommendations will be discussed individually. Necessary prescriptions for orthotics and other braces, biomechanics evaluations, physical therapy prescriptions, and other supportive measures will be provided when appropriate. Continuous patient follow-up will occur at specific timepoints to optimize the overall recovery plan.
Why Choose Dr. Steve Yoon For PPP Therapy?
Dr. Steve Yoon is a highly regarded biologics expert utilizing platelet poor plasma (PPP) therapy in professional sports making him a top choice in Los Angeles and around the country. He has extensive experience utilizing platelet poor plasma while in his role as Director of Clinical Regenerative Medicine at the Cedars Sinai Kerlan Jobe Institute and as a consultant for many professional sports teams and sports agencies throughout the country. Dr. Yoon has successfully treated patients over two decades while specializing in the use of platelet poor plasma and other regenerative therapies to enhance recovery and performance. His personalized and tailored approach with patients and helping them with their quality of life has earned him numerous honors including being recognized annually in Los Angeles as a Super Doctor as well as a Top Doctor nationally by Castle Connolly.
RESEARCH ARTICLES
- Fernandes GCAM, Rodeo SA. Platelet-Poor Plasma for Muscle Injuries: A Review of Mechanisms and Clinical Perspectives. Orthop J Sports Med. 2025;13(11):23259671251356628. doi:10.1177/23259671251356628.
- Raum G, Kenyon C, Bowers R. Platelet-Poor versus Platelet-Rich Plasma for the Treatment of Muscle Injuries. Curr Sports Med Rep. 2024;23(6):222-228. doi:10.1249/JSR.0000000000001173.
- Kruse RC, Eisenmann J, Glass NA, Petrachaianan K, et al. Platelet-Poor vs Platelet-Rich Plasma for the Treatment of Acute Thigh Muscle Injuries. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. Published online July 3, 2024. doi:10.1097/PHM.0000000000002591.
- Chellini F, Tani A, Zecchi-Orlandini S, Sassoli C. Influence of Platelet-Rich and Platelet-Poor Plasma on Endogenous Mechanisms of Skeletal Muscle Repair/Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(3):683. doi:10.3390/ijms20030683.
- Miroshnychenko O, Chalkley RJ, Leib RD, Everts PA, Dragoo JL. Proteomic Analysis of Platelet-Rich and Platelet-Poor Plasma. Regen Ther. 2020;15:226-235. doi:10.1016/j.reth.2020.09.004.
- Valotto-Junior E, Silva SRB, Muniz LHG, Kimura E. A Randomized Study Comparing the Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma and Platelet-Poor Plasma for the Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis. Res Soc Dev. 2023;12(9):e7812943168. doi:10.33448/rsd-v12i9.43168.
- Malahias MA, Mavrogenis AF, Nikolaou VS, et al. Similar Effect of Ultrasound-Guided Platelet-Rich Plasma versus Platelet-Poor Plasma Injections for Chronic Plantar Fasciitis. Foot (Edinb). 2019;38:30-33. doi:10.1016/j.foot.2018.11.003.