What are platelets?
Platelets are small, colorless, disk-shaped cell fragments lacking a nucleus that are found in blood and play an imperative role in clot formation. They also have antimicrobial properties that support healing, infection control and the release of growth factors. These growth factors orchestrate the key biological processes required for healing.
What is APC?
Plasma is a fluid component of blood that contains water, vital proteins, salts, minerals, sugars, fats, hormones and vitamins. APC is plasma with a higher concentration of platelets than is generally found in blood.
What are growth factors?
Growth factors are necessary to initiate tissue repair at a wound site. Growth factors derived from platelets are responsible for soft tissue repair, bone regeneration, development of new blood vessels and stimulation of the wound healing process.13,17,18 The concentrated platelets in APC may help optimize the conditions for healing.11,14
What is APC used to treat?
The use of APC varies from procedure to procedure, but it is most widely used in patients who have an area of mild to moderate tissue degeneration. There are ongoing studies exploring expanded uses for APC procedures.
Is APC safe?
The use of APC is a safe, clinically accepted procedure.
How can I find a physician who treats patients with APC?
Please click here to find a physician who offers APC treatments.
Is the procedure covered by insurance?
Please consult your insurance company to verify coverage. Every payer has different guidelines for reimbursement, but generally APC procedures are not reimbursed. There is reimbursement for some of the expenses associated with concentrated bone marrow and concentrated adipose tissue procedures, but the physician or hospital must follow applicable coding and reimbursement guidelines from the payer. This means that some or all of the costs associated with the procedures using these autografts may need to be covered by the patient at the time of treatment.