Anesthesia for all closed procedures on humeral head and neck, sternoclavicular joint, acromioclavicular joint, and shoulder joint
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Anesthesia for all closed procedures on the humeral head and neck, sternoclavicular joint, acromioclavicular joint, and shoulder joint
Summary
This procedure involves administering anesthesia to numb the shoulder area, including the humeral head and neck, sternoclavicular joint, acromioclavicular joint, and shoulder joint. It ensures the patient remains pain-free during closed (non-surgical) procedures on these parts.
Purpose
The purpose of administering anesthesia in these cases is to alleviate pain and facilitate various closed procedures, such as joint manipulations or injections, aimed at treating joint dislocations, injuries, or arthritic conditions.
Indications
- Joint dislocations or subluxations
- Severe shoulder pain requiring intervention
- Conditions like arthritis or bursitis needing diagnostic or therapeutic injections
- Patients requiring manipulative reduction
Preparation
- Patients may be advised to fast for several hours before the procedure.
- Any regular medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be adjusted after consulting a doctor.
- Pre-procedure assessments might include blood tests and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs.
Procedure Description
- The patient will lie in a comfortable position, and the skin over the targeted area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
- An intravenous (IV) line may be inserted for medications and fluids.
- Local, regional, or general anesthesia is administered by an anesthesiologist.
- Once numbness is achieved, the physician performs the closed procedure on the joint.
- Monitoring of vital signs continues throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
Duration
Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the specific procedure.
Setting
The procedure is typically performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.
Personnel
- Anesthesiologist
- Orthopedic surgeon or specialist physician
- Nurses and medical assistants
Risks and Complications
- Common: Minor discomfort at the injection site, temporary numbness or tingling
- Rare: Allergic reactions to anesthetic agents, infection, bleeding, nerve damage
Benefits
- Elimination or significant reduction of pain during the procedure
- Facilitation of essential diagnostic and therapeutic interventions
- Improved joint function and pain relief once the underlying issue is addressed
Recovery
- Observation in a recovery area for a short time post-procedure
- Instructions to avoid strenuous activities for 24-48 hours
- Pain management with prescribed medications
- Follow-up appointment to monitor recovery and effectiveness
Alternatives
- Conservative treatments such as physical therapy or medication
- Open surgical procedures, which may have longer recovery times but sometimes necessary
- Pros and cons should be discussed with the healthcare provider
Patient Experience
Patients can expect to feel minimal discomfort once anesthesia takes effect. Post-procedure, there may be some soreness at the site, manageable with pain relief measures. Full recovery and return to normal activities depend on the initial condition being treated and the specific closed procedure performed.