Introduction: PRP Preparation and MSK Ultrasound Insights
Interest in platelet-rich plasma preparation continues to grow in orthopedics and sports medicine.
At the same time, clinicians are using MSK ultrasound with PRP preparation systems to improve precision and workflow.
In this session, Dr. Don Buford shares practical insights on PRP preparation system performance, ultrasound use, and clinical workflow.
About Dr. Don Buford
Dr. Don Buford, MD, FAAOS, RMSK, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and founder of Texas Orthobiologics.
He focuses on both surgical and non-surgical care. In addition, he provides patient-centered evaluations that include orthobiologics and orthopedic procedures.
Because of his experience, he is widely recognized in MSK ultrasound and orthobiologics.
Watch the PRP and Ultrasound Session
👉 Click to watch the full video and learn how the Tropocells® PRP preparation system performs in a clinical setting.
PRP Preparation System Demonstration
During a clinical evaluation, the team used the Tropocells® PRP preparation system.
Preparation workflow:
• 44 mL total blood draw using two 22 mL tubes
• single-spin centrifugation (10 minutes)
• removal of platelet-poor plasma (PPP)
• final PRP collection
Output:
• approximately 5.5 mL of PRP
• processed using a single-spin protocol
This workflow highlights a streamlined platelet-rich plasma preparation process for in-office use.
PRP Composition and Cell Count Data
Laboratory analysis was performed using Horiba ABX Micros equipment.
Reported findings:
• up to 4.7× platelet concentration
• approximately 5 billion platelets
• ~99.7% red blood cell reduction
• neutral monocyte levels
These results demonstrate key variables clinicians evaluate in a PRP preparation system, including platelet concentration and cellular composition.
👉 Patient-reported data available: https://www.buford.info/tropocellstest
Why PRP Preparation System Design Matters
Not all PRP preparation systems produce the same output.
Therefore, clinicians often evaluate:
• platelet concentration levels
• red blood cell removal
• leukocyte profile
• reproducibility of preparation
In addition, workflow efficiency plays an important role in clinical adoption.
MSK Ultrasound + PRP: A Combined Approach
Clinicians often combine MSK ultrasound with PRP preparation.
First, they prepare PRP using a centrifuge. Next, they use ultrasound to guide the injection.
This approach supports:
• real-time visualization
• precise needle placement
• targeted delivery to tissue
• improved procedural control
As a result, many practices integrate ultrasound into PRP workflows.
Scaling PRP Dose in Clinical Practice
Clinicians may adjust PRP volume based on workflow and clinical goals.
For example:
• using multiple tubes
• increasing total blood draw volume
• maintaining a single-spin process
However, preparation protocols vary. Therefore, clinicians rely on training, device instructions, and clinical judgment.
Clinical Takeaways for Physicians
When evaluating a platelet-rich plasma preparation system, consider:
• consistency of platelet concentration
• control of red blood cell content
• reproducibility of the process
• compatibility with ultrasound-guided procedures
In addition, review available data and system specifications.
Supporting Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Practices
Transcend Biologics supports clinicians with:
• PRP preparation system education
• workflow training
• product information and support
• access to published literature
As a result, practices can better evaluate how platelet-rich plasma preparation systems fit into their clinical environment.
Conclusion
Platelet-rich plasma preparation continues to evolve.
At the same time, clinicians are combining PRP preparation systems with MSK ultrasound to improve precision and workflow.
Because system design affects PRP composition, physicians should carefully evaluate available technologies.
Regulatory Notice
Tropocells® systems are intended for the preparation of autologous platelet-rich plasma.
The clinical use of PRP is determined by the treating physician based on patient evaluation and professional judgment.
Statements regarding PRP composition and performance reflect bench and laboratory data and published scientific literature. They are not intended to imply FDA-cleared indications for specific clinical outcomes.