Name of the Procedure:

Ultraviolet Light Therapy System Panel (HCPCS E0692)\ Common Name(s): UV Light Therapy, Light Panel Therapy\ Technical/Medical Terms: Phototherapy, Ultraviolet Therapy

Summary

Ultraviolet Light Therapy System Panel involves using a specialized light panel that emits ultraviolet light. This panel includes bulbs or lamps, a timer to control the duration of exposure, and eye protection to safeguard the patient's vision. The therapy is commonly used to treat various skin conditions and is typically a non-invasive, outpatient procedure.

Purpose

Ultraviolet light therapy is primarily used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, and other similar dermatological issues. The main goal is to reduce inflammation, slow down the excessive skin cell production, and improve the overall appearance and comfort of the skin. Expected outcomes include reduced skin lesions, decreased itching, and an overall improvement in skin health.

Indications

• Moderate to severe psoriasis
• Chronic eczema
• Vitiligo
• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
• Atopic dermatitis
• Other photoresponsive skin disorders

Patient criteria include those who have not responded adequately to topical treatments or systemic medications and those not contraindicated for light exposure.

Preparation

• Patients should follow specific skin care instructions provided by their healthcare provider.
• Avoid using skin products that can make the skin more sensitive to light for up to 24 hours before the procedure.
• A skin assessment to determine sensitivity and optimal dosage of UV exposure may be required.
• Eye protection is mandatory and will be provided.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: A healthcare provider will review your medical history and the specific condition being treated.
2. Skin Preparation: Cleanse the skin areas to be treated.
3. Positioning: The patient will stand or sit in front of the 4-foot UV light panel.
4. Equipment: The panel consists of UV bulbs/lamps, a built-in timer, and eye protection.
5. Exposure: Healthcare personnel will set the timer based on the required dose. The patient will be advised to wear goggles for eye protection during the exposure.
6. Monitoring: The patient will be monitored to ensure they are comfortable and to maintain the correct distance from the panel.

No sedation or anesthesia is required for this procedure.

Duration

The duration of each session can vary, but it typically lasts from several seconds to a few minutes, depending on the condition being treated and the prescribed dose of UV light.

Setting

Ultraviolet light therapy is usually performed in a dermatology clinic, an outpatient clinic, or a specialized treatment center.

Personnel

The procedure is usually carried out by trained healthcare professionals, such as:

• Dermatologists
• Specialized Nurses or Technicians

Risks and Complications

• Mild sunburn or irritation
• Premature skin aging
• Increased risk of skin cancer with prolonged use
• Eye damage if proper protection is not used

Benefits

Patients can expect significant improvement in their skin condition, such as reduced itching, scaling, and inflammation. Benefits can be realized within a few weeks of consistent treatment.

Recovery

• Post-procedure, patients should apply moisturizers as recommended.
• Avoid direct sunlight for at least 24 hours post-treatment.
• Follow-up appointments are usually scheduled to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
• Minimal to no downtime is expected.

Alternatives

• Topical treatments (e.g., corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs)
• Systemic medications (e.g., biologics, immunosuppressants)
• Other forms of phototherapy (e.g., narrowband UVB therapy, targeted laser therapy)

Each alternative has its pros and cons regarding efficacy, side effects, and suitability.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients might feel mild warmth on the skin but generally should not experience any pain. Following the procedure, there might be minor redness or irritation, similar to a mild sunburn. Pain management typically involves gentle skincare practices and the use of prescribed moisturizers or creams to soothe the treated areas.