APS Autologous Protein Solution

APS is an autologous (from your own body) therapy which is designed to treat joint pain associated with knee osteoarthritis. In laboratory testing, APS has been shown to protect cartilage cells. This protective quality may slow the progression of osteoarthritis as well.

APS processes the patient’s own blood to concentrate white blood cells, platelets and plasma proteins into a small volume of plasma.

During a treatment, a small sample of blood is taken and put in a centrifugal device twice to separate out the “good” proteins. These are then injected into the knee joint. Positive outcomes are possible due to the presence of high concentrations of anti-inflammatory proteins. These good proteins may produce an immune response to inhibit cartilage destruction in osteoarthritis.

People normally start to feel a reduction in pain after around a week and the treatment remains effective for 2-3 years.

The treatment is suitable for patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis.

We would advise that you arrange to be driven to and from your appointment. You may feel pain and some bruising for the first 48-72 hours, which can be managed with oral or analgesic pain relief. However, we would advise you not to take ibuprofen to manage your discomfort.  Activity should be minimised for 14 days and you should try not to exceed pre-injection levels of exercise.

The benefits of APS injections are:

Relief from painReduction in stiffness and inflammation
Restored mobility and flexibility
Improvement in cartilage health