Name of the Procedure:

Chemotherapy Administration, Intravenous Infusion Technique; Initiation of Prolonged Chemotherapy Infusion (More than 8 Hours), Requiring Use of a Portable or Implantable Pump.

Summary

This procedure involves administering chemotherapy drugs directly into a patient's bloodstream over an extended period, typically longer than 8 hours, using a portable or implantable pump. The portable pump allows patients to receive continuous treatment while maintaining mobility.

Purpose

The primary aim is to deliver chemotherapy drugs consistently over a prolonged period, targeting cancer cells more effectively while minimizing side effects. This technique is particularly useful for delivering drugs that require steady blood levels to be effective.

Indications

• Types of cancer such as colorectal, pancreatic, or certain leukemias and lymphomas.
• Patients who need continuous drug administration over an extended period.
• Those who would benefit from maintaining a more constant therapeutic drug level.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure blood tests to check organ function and overall health.
• Imaging tests to locate the best vein for infusion.
• Fasting may be required, depending on the specific medication regimen.
• Discussing current medications and possible adjustments with your physician.

Procedure Description

1. Placement of the Central Venous Catheter (CVC): A central line is inserted into a large vein, usually in the chest or arm.
2. Pump Setup: A portable or implantable pump is connected to the catheter.
3. Medication Preparation: Chemotherapy drugs are prepared in a sterile environment.
4. Initiation: The chemotherapy infusion is started, and the pump is adjusted to deliver the medication over the prescribed period.
5. Monitoring: Vital signs and pump function are monitored initially to ensure proper operation.

Tools: Central venous catheter, implantable/portable pump, infusion bags, sterile equipment. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia for CVC insertion if not already placed.

Duration

The setup and initiation typically take about 1-2 hours, while the infusion itself spans over 8 hours or longer, depending on the treatment plan.

Setting

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Infusion centers
• Sometimes at home (with home health care support)

Personnel

• Oncologist
• Chemotherapy nurse
• Pharmacist
• Possibly a home health care nurse (for home settings)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the catheter site.
• Blood clots in the catheter.
• Pump malfunction.
• Allergic reactions to chemotherapy drugs.
• Side effects such as nausea, fatigue, or low blood cell counts.

Benefits

• Continuous drug delivery for better therapeutic effect.
• Increased mobility for the patient.
• More consistent and potentially more effective treatment outcomes.

Recovery

• Regular monitoring of blood counts and organ functions.
• Managing side effects with medications and supportive care.
• Follow-up appointments to adjust treatment as necessary.
• Recovery time can vary; patients often can resume normal activities with precautions.

Alternatives

• Intermittent intravenous chemotherapy (in an infusion center).
• Oral chemotherapy.
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
• Pros: Alternatives may involve shorter infusion times or oral administration.
• Cons: Less consistent drug levels, potential differences in efficacy.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel a prick or slight discomfort when the catheter is inserted.
• The pump might feel cumbersome initially but usually becomes less noticeable.
• It's crucial to manage side effects proactively with anti-nausea medications and rest.
• Pain is generally minimal and managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.