HCPCS Procedure: Technetium Tc-99m Bicisate, Diagnostic, per Study Dose, up to 25 Millicuries (A9557)

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Technetium Scan, Tc-99m Bicisate Scan
• Medical Terms: Technetium Tc-99m Bicisate, Diagnostic Radiopharmaceutical Imaging

Summary

This diagnostic procedure involves injecting a small amount of a radioactive substance called Technetium Tc-99m Bicisate into the bloodstream. The substance travels through the body and collects in specific tissues, allowing a special camera to take detailed images. These images help healthcare providers diagnose and monitor various medical conditions.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: This procedure is primarily used to evaluate brain function and blood flow. It is often employed in cases of suspected stroke, epilepsy, and other neurological conditions.
• Goals/Expected Outcomes: The technetium scan aims to provide detailed images of physiological processes in the brain, aiding in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

Indications

• Symptoms like sudden weakness, loss of coordination, or speech difficulties.
• Suspected stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
• Evaluation of seizures and epilepsy.
• Assessment of brain blood flow in other neurological disorders.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Patients may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure. Specific medication adjustments might be necessary as advised by the physician.
• Diagnostic Tests: A detailed medical history and possibly some preliminary imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI may be required.

Procedure Description

1. Injection: A healthcare professional will inject Technetium Tc-99m Bicisate into a vein.
2. Circulation: The patient waits for a period (usually 10-30 minutes) to allow the radiopharmaceutical to circulate and localize in the target tissues.
3. Imaging: The patient lies on an imaging table, and a gamma camera or SPECT camera captures the distribution of Technetium Tc-99m Bicisate in the brain.
4. Analysis: The images are analyzed by radiologists to assess brain function and blood flow.
   • Tools/Equipment: Gamma camera, intravenous injection supplies.
   • Anesthesia/Sedation: Generally, there is no need for anesthesia or sedation.

Duration

The entire process typically takes about 1-2 hours, including preparation, injection, waiting period, and imaging.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital's nuclear medicine department or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologists
• Nuclear medicine technologists
• Nurses

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Minor discomfort or bruising at the injection site.
• Rare Risks: Allergic reactions to the radiopharmaceutical, though extremely rare. Potential radiation exposure, which is minimal and generally considered safe.

Benefits

• Accuracy: High precision in diagnosing neurological conditions.
• Non-Invasive: A relatively non-invasive method for detailed brain imaging.
• Speed: Rapid acquisition of results aiding prompt medical decisions.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Patients can usually return to normal activities immediately. Hydration is encouraged to help clear the radioactive substance from the body.
• Recovery Time: Immediate, with minor, if any, restrictions.
• Follow-Up: Based on the results, follow-up appointments or additional tests may be required.

Alternatives

• Other Options: MRI, CT scan, PET scan.
• Pros and Cons: MRI and CT scans provide structural imaging but may not capture functional data. PET scans are highly detailed but more expensive and less widely accessible.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Minor discomfort from the needle injection. The patient needs to lie still during imaging.
• After Procedure: Typically no pain; discomfort is minimal. Staying hydrated can help flush out the radiopharmaceutical.

By understanding the details of the Technetium Tc-99m Bicisate diagnostic procedure, patients can be better prepared and feel more at ease throughout the process.