Fibrin degradation products, D-dimer; quantitative
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Fibrin Degradation Products, D-dimer; Quantitative
Summary
A D-dimer test is a blood test that measures the presence of fibrin degradation products, which are fragments produced by the breakdown of a blood clot. This test helps in diagnosing conditions related to abnormal blood clotting.
Purpose
The D-dimer test is used to assess whether a patient has a condition that causes abnormal clot formation and breakdown in the blood vessels, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). It helps to rule out the presence of an inappropriate blood clot.
Indications
This test is indicated for patients who display symptoms of blood clots, such as swelling, pain, or redness in a limb (DVT), sudden shortness of breath, chest pain (PE), or other signs of clot-related complications. It is also used in patients with suspected disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
Preparation
No special preparation is required for the D-dimer test. Patients can generally eat and take medications as usual unless otherwise specified by their healthcare provider.
Procedure Description
- A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein, typically in the arm.
- The sample is sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed for the presence and amount of D-dimer.
- Results are interpreted by the healthcare provider in conjunction with other diagnostic findings.
Duration
The blood draw itself takes only a few minutes. Laboratory analysis may take a few hours to a day, depending on the facility.
Setting
The blood sample is usually drawn in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or laboratory setting.
Personnel
The primary healthcare professional involved in this procedure is a phlebotomist or nurse. A laboratory technician and the attending physician also play roles in analyzing and interpreting the results.
Risks and Complications
The risks associated with a blood draw are minimal but may include bruising, infection at the puncture site, and lightheadedness. Serious complications are very rare.
Benefits
The primary benefit of the D-dimer test is its ability to help rule out serious conditions like DVT or PE when results are negative. This can prevent the need for more invasive tests and allow for quicker reassurance or alternative diagnosis and treatment.
Recovery
There is no recovery time needed following a D-dimer test. Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
Alternatives
Other diagnostic tests for blood clots include ultrasound imaging for DVT, CT pulmonary angiography for PE, and various blood coagulation tests. Each alternative has its benefits and limitations in terms of accuracy, invasiveness, and availability.
Patient Experience
During the procedure, patients may feel a small prick when the needle is inserted for the blood draw. Post-procedure, mild discomfort or slight bruising can occur at the puncture site, but these symptoms typically resolve quickly. Pain management is generally unnecessary as the procedure is minimally invasive and brief.