Bladder instillation of anticarcinogenic agent (including retention time)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Bladder Instillation of Anticarcinogenic Agent
- Common Names: Intravesical Therapy, Bladder Wash
- Medical Term: Bladder Instillation of Anticarcinogenic Agent
Summary
Bladder instillation of an anticarcinogenic agent involves the administration of a cancer-fighting drug directly into the bladder through a catheter. This procedure allows the medicine to directly target bladder cancer cells.
Purpose
The procedure is aimed at treating superficial bladder cancer by administering medication directly to the affected area, thereby minimizing systemic side effects. The goal is to reduce or eliminate cancer cells within the bladder.
Indications
- Non-invasive bladder cancer (e.g., low-grade, superficial tumors)
- Recurrent bladder cancer
- Patients who are not good candidates for surgery
Preparation
- Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
- A urine sample may be collected for testing.
- Patients should inform their doctors of any medications they are taking, as some might need to be adjusted.
Procedure Description
- The patient lies on their back.
- A sterile catheter is inserted into the bladder via the urethra.
- The anticarcinogenic agent is delivered through the catheter.
- The agent remains in the bladder for a prescribed retention time, typically around 1-2 hours, during which the patient may be instructed to change positions periodically.
- After the retention period, the catheter is removed, and the patient is permitted to urinate, flushing out the medication.
Duration
The procedure usually takes about 30-60 minutes, with the retention period adding another 1-2 hours.
Setting
The procedure is generally performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital.
Personnel
- Urologist or trained medical professional
- Nurses
- Medical assistants
Risks and Complications
- Urinary tract infections
- Bladder irritation or spasms
- Discomfort or pain during urination
- Rarely, systemic absorption of the drug causing systemic side effects
Benefits
- Direct treatment of bladder cancer cells
- Minimizes systemic side effects
- Can reduce the recurrence of bladder cancer
- Typically well-tolerated by patients
Recovery
- Patients are usually able to go home shortly after the procedure.
- Increased fluid intake may be recommended to flush out the medication.
- Temporary urinary discomfort or frequency can be expected.
- Follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor progress.
Alternatives
- Surgical resection of bladder tumors
- Radiation therapy
- Systemic chemotherapy
- Surveillance with frequent cystoscopies
Patient Experience
During the procedure, patients might feel slight discomfort from the catheter insertion and some bladder pressure. Post-procedure, mild irritation during urination is common. Pain medications may be provided to manage discomfort, and patients are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the agent from their system. Promptly reporting any severe side effects or complications to healthcare providers is essential.