Name of the Procedure:

Common name: Catheter Occlusion
Technical/Medical term: HCPCS Procedure Code C2628

Summary

Catheter occlusion is a medical procedure where a specialized catheter is used to intentionally block a blood vessel. This is often done to stop blood flow to a certain area, such as in cases of treating abnormal blood vessels or tumors.

Purpose

The primary purpose of this procedure is to limit or stop blood supply to a targeted area within the body. This can help:

• Treat tumors by cutting off their blood supply.
• Stop bleeding from an abnormal blood vessel.
• Manage certain vascular malformations.

Indications

This procedure may be indicated for:

• Patients with vascular tumors or malformations.
• Individuals experiencing hemorrhage due to abnormal vessels.
• Patients requiring pre-surgical preparation to minimize blood loss.

Preparation

• Patients may be required to fast for a few hours prior to the procedure.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary; blood thinners might need to be paused.
• Pre-procedure imaging tests like an angiogram or ultrasound to locate the target vessel.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The patient is positioned on the procedure table, and local or general anesthesia may be administered.
2. Access: A small incision is made, usually in the groin or arm, to insert the catheter.
3. Navigation: Using imaging guidance, the catheter is navigated to the target blood vessel.
4. Occlusion: Once in place, the catheter releases materials like coils, plugs, or chemicals to block the vessel.
5. Completion: The catheter is carefully removed, and the incision site is dressed and closed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity and location of the target vessel.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in a hospital's radiology or interventional suite, surgical center, or a well-equipped outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Interventional Radiologist or Vascular Surgeon
• Nurses and Radiology Technicians
• Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks include bleeding, infection, and pain at the incision site.
• Rare complications might involve unintended vessel occlusion, allergic reactions to materials or contrast dye, and adverse effects from anesthesia.
• Management includes immediate medical intervention and supportive care for any complications.

Benefits

Expected benefits include:

• Immediate reduction in blood flow to the problematic area.
• Relief from symptoms associated with the condition, such as pain or swelling.
• Reduced risk of hemorrhage and improved surgical outcomes.

Recovery

• Post-procedure, monitoring in a recovery area to ensure stability.
• Instructions include avoiding strenuous activities and keeping the incision site clean.
• Recovery time varies but typically involves a few days of rest with follow-up appointments scheduled to assess success and manage any concerns.

Alternatives

Alternate treatments might include:

• Medications to manage symptoms.
• Surgical resection of the problematic vessel or tumor.
• Endoscopic procedures.

Each alternative comes with its own set of pros and cons, such as different recovery times and varying risks.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Patients under general anesthesia will not feel anything; those under local anesthesia might feel pressure or mild discomfort.
• After the procedure: Pain management is conducted through medications. Most patients experience mild discomfort and need a short recovery period.
• Comfort measures include patient education, pain management plans, and supportive care tailored to individual needs.