36215 Selective catheter placement, arterial system; each first order thoracic or brachiocephalic branch, within a vascular family

Name of the Procedure:

Selective Catheter Placement, Arterial System; Each First Order Thoracic or Brachiocephalic Branch, Within a Vascular Family

Summary

Selective catheter placement in the arterial system involves inserting a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into a specific branch of the body's arterial system, such as those in the thorax or brachiocephalic areas. This is usually guided by imaging techniques to ensure precise positioning.

Purpose

This procedure is used to diagnose or treat conditions that affect the arteries. It allows for targeted delivery of medications or contrast agents and can be used to take detailed images of the blood vessels.

Indications

• Symptoms like chest pain or difficulty breathing, suggesting arterial blockages or abnormalities.
• Pre-existing conditions such as atherosclerosis or aneurysms.
• The need for detailed imaging before surgical procedures.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments might be necessary, particularly for blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure assessments, including blood tests and imaging (like MRI or CT scans), will be required.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned on an examination table, and a local anesthetic is applied to the entry site.
2. A small incision is made to access the artery.
3. A thin catheter is inserted through the artery and navigated to the desired location using imaging guidance (like fluoroscopy).
4. Once in place, the catheter can deliver contrast agents for imaging or medications for treatment.
5. After the necessary interventions, the catheter is removed, and the incision is closed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

It is usually performed in a hospital or specialized outpatient clinic equipped with advanced imaging facilities.

Personnel

• Interventional Radiologist or Cardiologist
• Nurses
• Radiologic Technologists
• Anesthesiologist (if deeper sedation is required)

Risks and Complications

• Common: Bruising or bleeding at the incision site.
• Rare: Infection, allergic reaction to contrast dye, arterial damage, or blood clots.
• Management: Monitoring for signs of complications and prompt treatment if they occur.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of arterial conditions.
• Reduced need for more invasive surgical interventions.
• Immediate relief from symptoms due to targeted treatment.

Recovery

• Patients may need to stay under observation for a few hours post-procedure.
• Instructions may include keeping the insertion site clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activities, and watching for signs of infection.
• Recovery typically takes a few days, with follow-up appointments scheduled to assess outcomes.

Alternatives

• Non-invasive imaging techniques, like MRI or CT angiography.
• Medication management for arterial conditions.
• Open surgical procedures for severe arterial issues.

Patient Experience

• Little to no pain during the procedure due to local anesthetic; discomfort may be felt at the insertion site following the procedure.
• Post-procedure, patients may feel tired but should mostly be comfortable.
• Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers and rest.