PRP Therapy for Chronic Bladder Pain Syndrome by Intravesical Application
Chronic cystitis, also known as chronic bladder pain syndrome, is a long-term condition that can significantly impair quality of life. Frequent urination during the day and night, urgency and pelvic pain often persist for years, and standard therapies do not always provide adequate relief.
At our Center of Excellence for Urology we use a modern regenerative approach that stimulates the natural healing mechanisms of the bladder mucosa, and it is PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy.
In interstitial cystitis, damage to the protective mucosal layer of the bladder often occurs, along with chronic inflammation of the bladder wall and increased sensitivity of nerve endings.
PRP contains a high concentration of platelets and growth factors that may:
- stimulate urothelial regeneration
- improve the integrity of the protective mucosal layer
- reduce chronic inflammation
- modulate tissue sensitivity
The goal of this therapy is not only to relieve symptoms, but also to address the underlying cause of the condition.
What is PRP?
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is a preparation derived from the patient’s own blood, consisting of plasma enriched with platelets and growth factors. It is obtained through a simple procedure involving the collection of a small amount of blood from a vein, which is then centrifuged to separate red blood cells and leukocytes that are not part of the targeted preparation.
Since the patient’s own blood is used the therapy is safe and well tolerated.
Who is this therapy intended for?
PRP bladder therapy may be beneficial for patients with chronic cystitis or chronic bladder pain syndrome who have not achieved satisfactory results with standard treatments and who are seeking a biological, regenerative treatment approach.
The indication for treatment is determined by a urologist following examination and diagnostic evaluation.
What does the procedure look like?
The procedure begins with drawing a small amount of blood (approximately 30 mL), which is processed using a specialized centrifugation technique to obtain PRP. The prepared PRP is then injected into the bladder using a minimally invasive cystoscopic technique with a fine needle at approximately 20 sites within the bladder mucosa. The procedure is performed under short-term analgosedation and requires a half-day stay in the day hospital.
What are the advantages of this method?
- The patient’s own biological material is used, eliminating the risk of allergic reactions or rejection.
- Minimal risk of side effects - temporary worsening of symptoms may occur after the procedure, including genital discomfort, mild lower abdominal pain and urinary symptoms such as increased frequency, burning sensation and mild blood in the urine.
- It stimulates anti-inflammatory and regenerative processes in the bladder wall, gradually leading to a reduction in chronic inflammation and painful bladder stimuli, thereby decreasing symptoms associated with chronic inflammation/chronic bladder pain syndrome.
The therapy is not recommended in cases of active urinary infection, coagulation disorders, treatment with strong anticoagulants (individual assessment required), or malignant bladder disease.
If you are experiencing symptoms of chronic bladder pain syndrome, schedule an appointment with our specialists at the Center of Excellence for Urology to find out whether you are a candidate for PRP therapy.
After a detailed evaluation our team will propose an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific symptoms.
