Desoxycorticosterone, 11-
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Desoxycorticosterone, 11-, also known as 11-Deoxycorticosterone.
Summary
Desoxycorticosterone, 11-, involves the administration of an adrenal corticosteroid hormone to manage and treat specific hormonal deficiencies or imbalances related to the adrenal glands.
Purpose
This procedure addresses conditions such as Addison's disease or congenital adrenal hyperplasia. The goal is to restore hormonal balance, alleviate symptoms, and prevent complications related to adrenal insufficiency.
Indications
- Symptoms of adrenal insufficiency (e.g., fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss)
- Electrolyte disturbances
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Diagnostic use in endocrine function testing
Preparation
- Patients may be advised to fast or adjust their medication regimen before the procedure.
- Diagnostic tests, such as blood work or imaging studies, might be required to assess adrenal function and overall health status.
Procedure Description
- Assessment: Patient's health status is reviewed, and any pre-procedure tests are evaluated.
- Administration: Desoxycorticosterone may be administered via intramuscular injection or other appropriate routes.
- Monitoring: Patient is monitored for any immediate reactions and to ensure the dose is effective.
Tools and Equipment:
- Sterile syringes and needles
- Medication vial (Desoxycorticosterone, 11-)
- Alcohol wipes and bandages
Anesthesia: Not typically required, although a local anesthetic might be used to minimize injection site discomfort.
Duration
The administration itself takes a few minutes, but the patient might need to stay for observation for around 30 minutes to an hour.
Setting
This procedure is often performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital setting.
Personnel
- Endocrinologist or primary care physician
- Registered nurse or medical assistant
- Possible consultation with a pharmacist
Risks and Complications
- Common risks: Injection site pain, minor bleeding or bruising
- Rare risks: Allergic reactions, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalance
Benefits
- Effective management of adrenal insufficiency
- Improvement in symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and hypotension
- Prevention of adrenal crises
Recovery
- Patients can typically resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.
- Follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor the effectiveness and adjust dosages as needed.
Alternatives
- Oral corticosteroid therapy
- Other hormonal treatments, depending on the underlying condition
- Pros: Less invasive options available such as oral medication
- Cons: Oral medications may have different absorption rates and effects
Patient Experience
- Mild discomfort at the injection site is common.
- Pain management options include applying ice or local anesthetics.
- Patients generally report an improvement in symptoms within a few days to a week after administration.