Technetium tc-99m arcitumomab, diagnostic, per study dose, up to 45 millicuries
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
- Common Names: Arcitumomab scan, Technetium-99m arcitumomab diagnostic imaging
- Technical Terms: Technetium (Tc-99m) Arcitumomab, A9568
Summary
The Technetium Tc-99m arcitumomab scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to detect certain types of cancer, particularly in the colon and rectum. It involves injecting a radioactive substance and then taking images of the body to locate cancerous cells.
Purpose
- Medical Conditions: Primarily used to detect metastatic colorectal cancer.
- Goals/Outcomes: The goal is to accurately identify cancerous cells in various parts of the body, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Indications
- Symptoms/Conditions: Suspected or confirmed cases of colorectal cancer.
- Patient Criteria: Patients needing detailed imaging to locate primary and metastatic cancer sites.
Preparation
- Instructions: Patients may be advised to fast for a few hours before the procedure. They should also inform their healthcare provider of any medications they are currently taking.
- Pre-tests: Blood tests to assess overall health and kidney function might be required before the imaging.
Procedure Description
- Injection: The patient will receive an intravenous injection of Technetium Tc-99m arcitumomab.
- Uptake Period: There is a short waiting period to allow the substance to circulate and be absorbed by any cancerous cells.
- Imaging: The patient will then lie on a scanning table while a special camera takes images of their body.
- Completion: The images are reviewed by a radiologist for the presence of cancerous activity.
- Tools/Equipment: Gamma camera, Technetium-99m arcitumomab injection.
- Anesthesia/Sedation: Generally, no anesthesia or sedation is required.
Duration
The entire procedure typically takes around 2-3 hours, including the uptake period.
Setting
This procedure is usually conducted in a hospital's nuclear medicine department or an outpatient imaging center.
Personnel
- Technologist: Conducts the imaging scan.
- Radiologist: Interprets the images.
- Nurse/Phlebotomist: Administers the injection.
Risks and Complications
- Common Risks: Minor discomfort at the injection site, mild allergic reactions.
- Rare Risks: More significant allergic reactions, exposure to radiation.
Benefits
- Benefits: Accurate localization of cancer cells, which helps in planning appropriate treatment. Results are typically available within a few days.
Recovery
- Post-Procedure: Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
- Instructions: Stay hydrated to help flush out the radioactive substance.
- Follow-Up: Based on the results, further diagnostic tests or treatments may be scheduled.
Alternatives
- Other Options: CT scans, MRI, PET scans.
- Pros/Cons: Each alternative varies in accuracy, cost, and availability. The Technetium Tc-99m arcitumomab scan is often more specific for colorectal cancer.
Patient Experience
- During Procedure: Most patients feel minimal discomfort except for the brief injection.
- Post-Procedure: Some patients might experience mild fatigue. Pain management usually isn't necessary, but any discomfort can be addressed with over-the-counter pain relievers.