In recent years, a great deal of attention has been focused on the development of biological treatments for tendon disorders of the shoulder and elbow. One such method is autologous blood—or autologous plasma—therapy, also known as ACP (autologous conditioned plasma) or PRP (platelet-rich plasma).
This therapy aims to specifically stimulate healing processes that have slowed down or come to a standstill. To do this, the cells and signaling molecules responsible for wound healing and tissue regeneration are isolated from the patient’s blood, concentrated, and then injected into damaged tendon structures. The goal of the treatment is to reactivate healing processes that were previously inhibited.
Find out exactly how the procedure works and what its effects are here!
The Mechanism of Action of Autologous Blood Therapy
The mechanism of action of ACP and autologous blood therapy is based on natural growth and healing factors that are present in the blood of every person. When tissue is injured, the natural healing process leads to the accumulation and activation of blood platelets—known technically as thrombocytes—which release the relevant growth factors and proteins necessary for blood clotting, cell division, and scar formation. This natural regulation of healing processes can be specifically harnessed.
In autologous blood therapy, platelets are isolated and concentrated from the patient’s own blood, while the other blood components—which are responsible for the immune response and oxygen transport—are filtered out. This platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can then be applied to defective or damaged tissue. ACP, or autologous-conditioned plasma, works in exactly the same way, except that the platelets are also removed and their signaling molecules are utilized directly.
The body is then able to repair the damaged tissue on its own as part of its natural—though stimulated—healing processes. Just as with the healing of a broken bone, the injured tendon structures can grow back together.
An advantage of this biological treatment method is that it has virtually no side effects, since it uses only the body’s own material. Additives such as cortisone are not required. The procedure can make surgery unnecessary or further stimulate healing after surgery.
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ACP Therapy with Autologous Blood Plasma for the Shoulder and Elbow – Orthopedic Treatment
ACP Treatment Procedure: Injection of Autologous Blood Plasma
The procedure is very simple. The patient’s own blood is obtained by drawing approximately 10 milliliters from a vein in the arm and is then processed using a centrifuge to separate the individual components. Since blood cells vary in size and weight, mechanical separation is possible, and no further chemical processing is required. The resulting concentrate is then injected into the site of the injury to achieve the most effective results possible. The injection is performed under sterile conditions to minimize the risk of complications. Depending on the biological activity of the target tissue, the procedure can also be repeated to achieve the maximum biological response.
Where is ACP therapy used for orthopedic conditions and sports injuries?
It is particularly well-suited for the tendon tissue of the shoulder joint and elbow, which is sometimes subjected to heavy strain. In addition, ACP therapy is used in orthopedics and sports medicine, especially for sports injuries such as tendon irritation or overuse injuries in the area of the affected joint. In these cases, ACP therapy often yields good results, as it specifically supports the body’s own healing mechanisms and promotes tissue regeneration 
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Shoulder
In cases of incomplete (partial) tears in the rotator cuff (rotator cuff tear), the plasma can support the tendon’s self-healing process and help alleviate local painful inflammation. In cases of complete tears, ACP is used to support the healing and regeneration of the operated tendon following arthroscopic suturing. The effectiveness of this therapy has been demonstrated in several studies.
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Elbow
The elbow is one of the biggest beneficiaries of plasma therapy, especially in cases of tennis elbow and injuries to the extensor tendons. ACP injections are significantly superior to the most commonly used procedures in clinical practice—injections of cortisone or painkillers—and result in significantly fewer relapses. As a result, surgical interventions can often be avoided.
Benefits of ACP Therapy, Side Effects, and Efficacy
ACP therapy is considered an innovative treatment method in orthopedics and is used particularly for tendon disorders and injuries. ACP therapy can be a sensible treatment option, especially for chronic tendon problems. A key advantage is that only autologous conditioned plasma is used. As a result, the procedure is generally well tolerated and the risk of infection is low.
The effect of ACP therapy is based on introducing an increased concentration of platelets and their signaling molecules into the affected tissue. The active ingredients in ACP consist of the body’s own signaling molecules, which promote repair processes in the tissue. These can support the regeneration of injured tissue and have an anti-inflammatory effect. Studies show that significant relief of symptoms can be achieved, particularly in cases of painful tendon irritation and early-stage joint degeneration.
Unlike drug-based treatments, no conventional active ingredient is used; instead, the body’s own material is employed.
Side effects are rare and usually mild. Temporary pain or local inflammation at the injection site may occur. Serious complications occur only in exceptional cases.
How much does ACP therapy cost, and does health insurance cover the costs?
The cost of ACP therapy depends on various factors, including the number of sessions and the individual’s medical condition. Treatment is typically performed on an outpatient basis and is often administered at weekly intervals.
Statutory health insurance plans generally do not currently cover the costs, as this is a relatively new form of therapy. Private health insurance plans may cover some of the costs, depending on the specific plan. Patients should clarify with their health insurance provider before starting treatment whether the costs will be reimbursed in full or in part.
FAQ
What is ACP therapy?
ACP therapy is an autologous blood therapy in which blood is drawn from a vein in the arm, processed, and then injected into specific areas. The treatment is performed on an outpatient basis. Before starting treatment, patients should consider certain factors related to ACP therapy, such as existing infections or coagulation disorders.
How does ACP therapy work?
The effect of ACP therapy is based on an increased concentration of platelets, which can support the healing process in the affected area.
For which patients is ACP suitable?
ACP therapy is primarily used for sports injuries and osteoarthritis and can relieve pain.
Is the treatment safe?
Since only the body’s own material is used, the method is considered well-tolerated, and serious side effects are rare.
