Prothrombin complex concentrate (human), kcentra, per i.u. of factor ix activity
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Common Name: Prothrombin Complex Concentrate, Kcentra
Technical/Medical Term: Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (Human), Kcentra, per I.U. of Factor IX Activity (C9132)
Summary
This procedure involves the administration of Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (PCC), a medication used to help the blood clot. Kcentra is a specific brand of PCC made from human plasma and used to rapidly reverse the effects of certain blood-thinning medications in patients experiencing severe bleeding.
Purpose
Medical Conditions/Problems Addressed:
- Urgent reversal of anticoagulation in patients with major bleeding or who need an emergency surgery.
- It corrects blood clotting in individuals on certain types of anticoagulant therapy (e.g., warfarin) who experience unexpected bleeding events.
Goals/Expected Outcomes:
- To halt active bleeding
- To prepare patients for urgent surgeries by restoring normal blood clotting functions
Indications
Specific Symptoms/Conditions:
- Severe unexpected bleeding in patients taking vitamin K antagonists (such as warfarin)
- Patients on anticoagulants who require emergency surgery
- Patients with Vitamin K deficiency bleeding disorders
Patient Criteria/Factors:
- Those currently taking anticoagulants with a high risk of bleeding
- Patients showing symptoms of significant blood loss or active hemorrhage
Preparation
Pre-Procedure Instructions:
- No specific patient preparation like fasting is usually required.
- Adjustments in anticoagulant medications might be necessary.
- Laboratory tests, such as PT/INR (Prothrombin Time/International Normalized Ratio), to assess blood clotting ability.
Procedure Description
Step-by-Step Explanation:
- Obtain baseline measurements of blood clotting parameters.
- Reconstitute Kcentra with the provided diluent.
- Administer Kcentra via intravenous injection over a few minutes.
- Monitor the patient closely for any immediate reactions.
Tools, Equipment, or Technology:
- Intravenous (IV) infusion equipment
- PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) for healthcare providers
Anesthesia or Sedation Details:
- No anesthesia or sedation is required for the administration of Kcentra.
Duration
The actual administration of Kcentra usually takes between 5 to 10 minutes, but patient monitoring and preparation may take longer.
Setting
This procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting, such as an emergency room or intensive care unit, due to the need for immediate medical care and close monitoring.
Personnel
Healthcare Professionals Involved:
- Emergency physicians
- Hematologists
- Nurses
- Pharmacists
Risks and Complications
Common Risks:
- Headache, nausea, vomiting
- Injection site reactions
Rare Risks:
- Blood clots (thrombosis)
- Allergic reactions
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
Management of Complications:
- Monitoring the patient closely for signs of thrombosis
- Use of additional blood thinners if a thrombotic event occurs
- Supportive care for allergic reactions
Benefits
Expected Benefits:
- Rapid reversal of anticoagulation, thus reducing bleeding risks.
- Ability to proceed with emergency surgical procedures.
- Stabilization of the patient's condition.
Time to Realize Benefits:
- Benefits are usually noticeable within a few hours after administration.
Recovery
Post-Procedure Care:
- Continued monitoring of blood clotting parameters
- Possible administration of additional doses if needed
- Observation for any adverse reactions
Expected Recovery Time:
- Immediate effects with stabilization typically occurring within hours
- Follow-up appointments to assess clotting function and adjust anticoagulant therapy as required
Alternatives
Other Treatment Options:
- Fresh frozen plasma (FFP)
- Vitamin K administration
- Recombinant activated factor VII
Pros and Cons:
- FFP: Longer preparation and administration times, higher risk of volume overload.
- Vitamin K: Slower onset of action compared to Kcentra.
- Recombinant factor VII: Faster action, but more expensive and limited availability.
Patient Experience
During the Procedure:
- Minimal discomfort from the IV injection.
After the Procedure:
- Possible mild side effects such as headache or nausea.
- Monitoring for any signs of adverse reactions.
- Pain management is generally not necessary, as the procedure is minimally invasive.