Q: What is a double centrifuge system for PRP and what are the benefits? — S.B. ~ Manhattan, N.Y.

A: The double centrifuge system is a process used in preparing Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) where the whole blood is spun two times to optimize the concentration of the platelets. In the first spin, the red blood cells are separated from the plasma, which contains the platelets. In the second spin, the cellular components in the plasma are further concentrated. The platelets and growth factors that are recovered from the plasma are then injected into the scalp. Additional growth factors are released from the platelets after the injections and it is these proteins that provide the benefit of helping to maintain the hair and to stimulate growth. By using a double centrifuge technique, the ideal concentration of platelets and growth factors are achieved.

• Read more about Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for Hair Loss
• View a slideshow of how PRP is prepared

  

  1. Drawing Patient’s Blood into Syringe

  

  2. Filling Vial with Whole Blood

  

  3. Vial is Halfway Emptied

  
  

  

  4. Weighing Vial of Whole Blood

  

  5. Setting Counter Weight

  

  6. Spinning of Whole Blood in Centrifuge

  
  

  

  7. Result of 1st Spin in Centrifuge

  

  8. Removing Plasma Supernantant from Spun Blood

  

  9. Plasma Halfway Drawn Up

  
  

  

  10. Withdrawal of Plasma is Complete

  

  11. Loading 2nd Vial with Plasma

  

  12. Plasma (left); Red Blood Cells to be Discarded (right)

  
  

  

  13. Plasma Being Weighed

  

  14. Spinning of Plasma in Centrifuge

  

  15. Spun Plasma

  
  

  

  16. Withrawing Plasma Supernatant to Concentrate Platelets and Create PRP

  

  17. PRP in Small Syringes; Plasma in Large Syringe (to be Discarded)

  

  18. Injecting Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) into Patient’s Scalp