Name of the Procedure:

Chemotherapy Administration into CNS (Intrathecal Chemotherapy; Spinal Chemotherapy)

Summary

Intrathecal chemotherapy involves delivering cancer-fighting drugs directly into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This procedure requires a spinal puncture to ensure medication reaches the central nervous system (CNS).

Purpose

Medical Condition:

This procedure is commonly used in treating cancers that affect the brain and spinal cord, such as leukemia, lymphoma, or metastatic cancers.

Goals:

• Deliver chemotherapy drugs to the CNS
• Reduce or eliminate cancer cells in the CSF
• Prevent cancer from spreading to the brain and spinal cord

Indications

Conditions:

• CNS leukemia or lymphoma
• Metastatic cancers to brain or spinal cord
• Primary brain tumors

Patient Criteria:

• Confirmed diagnosis of CNS cancer involvement
• Positive cerebrospinal fluid cytology
• Indicated by cancer staging or recurrence

Preparation

• Fasting for a certain number of hours before the procedure
• Possible medication adjustments, including stopping blood thinners
• Pre-procedure blood tests or imaging studies
• Hydrate well and/or obtain IV fluids as recommended by your healthcare provider

Procedure Description

1. Positioning: Patient lies on their side or leans forward while sitting to arch their back.
2. Local Anesthesia: Local anesthetic is administered to numb the puncture site.
3. Spinal Puncture: A needle is inserted into the lower back between vertebrae to access the CSF.
4. Drug Administration: Chemotherapy drugs are injected into the CSF through the needle.
5. Completion: Needle is removed and a small bandage is applied.

Tools/Equipment:

• Spinal needle
• Sterile drapes and gloves
• Chemotherapy drug preparation

Anesthesia:

Local anesthesia is typically used. Sedation may be provided depending on patient comfort and condition.

Duration

The procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

Performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or specialized cancer treatment center.

Personnel

• Specialist oncologist or neurologist
• Registered nurse
• Possibly an anesthesiologist for sedation

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Localized back pain at puncture site

Rare Complications:

• Infection
• Bleeding at puncture site
• Nerve damage
• Seizures

Benefits

• Direct delivery of chemotherapy to the CNS enhances efficacy
• Reduces risk of systemic side effects compared to intravenous chemotherapy
• Can significantly prolong survival and improve quality of life in affected patients

Recovery

• Lie flat for a few hours post-procedure to decrease headache risk
• Monitor for signs of infection, such as fever or increased pain
• Restrictions on certain activities like heavy lifting for a few days
• Follow-up appointments for additional treatments or assessments

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Systemic chemotherapy
• Radiotherapy to brain and spinal cord
• Surgery to remove tumors, if accessible
• High-dose intravenous chemotherapy with blood-brain barrier penetration

Pros and Cons:

• Systemic chemotherapy: broader treatment but higher systemic side effects
• Radiotherapy: effective but may cause radiation damage to healthy tissues
• Surgery: direct removal but limited to accessible tumors

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Brief discomfort or pressure when needle is inserted
• Localized pain managed with local anesthesia
• Possible mild sedation for relaxation

After the Procedure:

• Mild back pain, headache, or nausea that can be managed with medications
• Instructions to rest and avoid strenuous activities
• Regular monitoring for any adverse effects