Technetium tc-99m teboroxime, diagnostic, per study dose
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Common Name: Technetium Scan
Medical Term: Technetium Tc-99m Teboroxime, Diagnostic, Per Study Dose (HCPCS Code: A9501)
Summary
A Technetium Tc-99m teboroxime scan is a type of nuclear imaging test used to visualize blood flow to the heart. It involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material (Technetium Tc-99m teboroxime) into the bloodstream and capturing images with a special gamma camera.
Purpose
Medical Conditions: Coronary artery disease, cardiac ischemia, heart muscle damage Goals: To assess blood flow to the heart, detect blockages or reduced flow, and help diagnose heart conditions.
Indications
Symptoms: Chest pain, shortness of breath, unexplained fatigue Criteria: Patients with suspected coronary artery disease, abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG), or previous heart conditions.
Preparation
Instructions:
- Fasting for at least 4-6 hours before the procedure
- Avoiding caffeine and smoking for at least 24 hours prior
- Discussing current medications with the doctor, as some may need to be temporarily discontinued
Tests: Basic blood work, baseline ECG, and physical examination.
Procedure Description
- Injection: A small dose of Technetium Tc-99m teboroxime is injected into the patient's vein.
- Imaging: The patient lies down on a table under a gamma camera. The camera captures images of the heart's blood flow.
- Rest and Stress Phases: The scan may include images taken at rest and after exercise or pharmacologic stress (medicine that simulates exercise).
- Analysis: A radiologist or cardiologist analyzes the images to assess blood flow and identify any abnormalities.
Tools: Gamma camera, intravenous injection kit, stress test equipment (treadmill or medication).
Anesthesia: Not typically required; mild sedation may be used if needed.
Duration
Approximately 1-2 hours, including preparation, imaging, and post-procedure observation.
Setting
Performed in a hospital radiology or nuclear medicine department, or an outpatient imaging center.
Personnel
- Nuclear medicine technologist
- Radiologist or cardiologist
- Nurse or medical assistant for patient support
Risks and Complications
Common Risks: Mild discomfort from injection, slight risk of allergic reaction to the radioactive material. Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions, complications from stress testing (if exercise is involved).
Benefits
Expected Benefits: High-quality images of the heart to help diagnose conditions, non-invasive with minimal discomfort. Results typically available within a few days.
Recovery
Post-Procedure: Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately. Instructions: Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the radioactive material from the body. Follow-Up: Doctor's appointment for interpreting the results and planning further treatment if needed.
Alternatives
Other Options: Stress echocardiography, cardiac MRI, CT angiography. Pros and Cons: Alternatives might offer different imaging capabilities, risks, and preparation protocols. The choice depends on patient-specific factors and medical condition.
Patient Experience
During Procedure: Mild discomfort or sting from the injection, lying still during imaging. After Procedure: Generally, no pain; minor side effects from injection or stress agent may include nausea or headache. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers if needed, but usually not necessary. Comfort measures include assistance from healthcare staff and a calm environment.