PRP and cell-based methods both use the patient’s own tissue, but they are different procedures with different levels of evidence. How they differ and how to choose.

What is PRP?

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is obtained from 10–60 ml of the patient’s blood by centrifugation. Platelets release growth factors that reduce inflammation and may support tissue healing. The procedure takes about an hour and is done as an outpatient.

What are cell-based methods?

They include bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC), microfragmented adipose tissue (MFAT) and the stromal vascular fraction. They are obtained by bone marrow aspiration or mini-liposuction, so the procedure is more complex and more expensive. CGF is a blood-derived concentrate similar to PRP.

Comparison

PRPCell-based methods (BMAC, MFAT)
HarvestBlood from a veinBone marrow aspiration or mini-liposuction
EvidenceLargest: knee osteoarthritis, tennis elbowSmall studies, mixed results
Effect on cartilageCartilage restoration not provenCartilage restoration not proven
Usual duration of effectSeveral months, longer in some patientsIndividual, little data
CostLowerHigher

What the research says

In knee osteoarthritis, PRP reduced pain more than hyaluronic acid in several studies, although in the large RESTORE trial it did not outperform placebo. For cell-based methods there is no evidence yet that they work better than PRP. Neither method grows new cartilage.

Why image guidance matters

An injection under ultrasound or X-ray guidance is more accurate than a “blind” one, especially into the hip and the spine.

How to choose

The clinic physician chooses the method based on the diagnosis, stage, previous treatment and your goals. We send your images to several clinics, and you compare their offers and prices. More in the PRP vs SVF comparison.

Frequently asked questions

How does PRP differ from cell-based methods (MFAT, BMAC)?

PRP is a platelet concentrate from blood; the procedure is simple and inexpensive. Cell-based methods use fat tissue or bone marrow, require harvesting and cost more; an advantage over PRP has not been convincingly shown in studies.

Which is better for knee osteoarthritis: PRP or stem cells?

For stage I–III osteoarthritis there are more studies on PRP. The clinic physician chooses based on stage, age and expectations; neither method grows new cartilage.

How many PRP injections are needed?

Usually a course of 1–3 injections a few weeks apart. The effect is assessed after 2–3 months; repeating a course that did not help makes no sense.

How does RegenPAS help organise treatment?

RegenPAS is a patient service centre in Munich, not a clinic. We review your images and symptoms and send a request to several partner clinics at once. Clinics that can accept you send their own conditions and price; prices differ between clinics, and you choose the option that suits you. The coordinator replies within 24 hours, and a clinic physician’s preliminary opinion follows in 1–3 business days. We then arrange the appointment, visa invitation, interpreter, transfers and accommodation. Treatment decisions are made by the clinic physician. Contact a coordinator.

How much does treatment cost and how long do I need to stay in Munich?

The cost depends on the method, the diagnostics needed and the clinic itself: prices differ between clinics. We request offers from several clinics and send you their conditions and quotes so you can compare. Price guidance is on the treatment cost page. For an outpatient procedure, 2–3 days in Munich are usually enough: examination, procedure and follow-up visit.

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Who it is not suitable for and possible risks

Contraindications

  • Active infection — at the injection site or systemic, with fever.
  • Active cancer or ongoing chemotherapy.
  • Blood clotting disorders or a low platelet count. Anticoagulants are discussed with the physician.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding — the procedure is usually postponed.
  • A corticosteroid injection into the same area in recent weeks.
  • Severe stage IV osteoarthritis with axial deformity and joint destruction — joint replacement is usually discussed instead.

Possible risks

  • Pain and swelling at the injection site for 1–3 days.
  • Bruising where blood or fat tissue is taken.
  • Rarely, infection. The procedure is therefore performed under sterile conditions with ultrasound or X-ray guidance.
  • The effect may be absent or smaller than expected.

If any of these apply to you, mention it in your request. The coordinator will check with the clinic physician whether treatment is possible. Contact a coordinator.

Scientific evidence

Studies of regenerative methods show mixed results. Clinic physicians rely on research including the following:

  1. Sheth U et al. Efficacy of autologous platelet-rich plasma use for orthopaedic indications: a meta-analysis. J Bone Joint Surg Am, 2012.
  2. Bennell KL et al. Effect of Intra-articular Platelet-Rich Plasma vs Placebo Injection on Pain and Medial Tibial Cartilage Volume in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: The RESTORE Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA, 2021.

Next steps: Treatment methods · Treatment cost · How treatment in Germany is organised · Contact a coordinator

Clinic and method matching — free of charge

Describe your case and attach your MRI report. We will identify clinics that use the relevant methods and forward your request to them. No obligation; we reply within 24 hours.

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