Name of the Procedure:

Common Name(s): Ultraviolet Light Therapy
Technical/Medical Term: Ultraviolet Multidirectional Light Therapy System (HCPCS E0694)

Summary

In simple terms, ultraviolet light therapy involves using special UV light to treat certain skin conditions. The therapy is conducted in a large cabinet where the patient stands, and the lights surround them to provide consistent exposure.

Purpose

This procedure primarily addresses:

• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Vitiligo
• Other dermatological conditions

Goals and Expected Outcomes: The therapy aims to reduce the symptoms of these skin conditions, improve skin appearance, and help manage chronic skin diseases.

Indications

Ultraviolet light therapy is suitable for:

• Patients with moderate to severe psoriasis
• Persistent eczema that has not responded well to topical treatments
• Individuals with vitiligo seeking to restore skin pigmentation

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Patients should avoid applying any lotions or creams on the day of the procedure.
• Protective eyewear will be provided and must be worn during the therapy.
• Any photosensitizing medications should be discussed with the healthcare provider beforehand.

Diagnostic Tests:

• A thorough skin evaluation by a dermatologist.
• Possibly, a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The patient is given eye protection and instructed on the procedure.
2. Entering the Cabinet: The patient stands in a 6-foot cabinet equipped with UV bulbs/lamps.
3. Exposure: The UV lights are turned on, and the patient is exposed for a predetermined amount of time, controlled by a timer.
4. Completion: The patient exits the cabinet and receives further instructions if necessary.

Equipment:

• UV bulbs/lamps
• Timer
• Protective eyewear

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• No anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

Each session typically lasts from a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the treatment plan.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a dermatologist’s office or a specialized outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Dermatologist
• Trained medical assistants or nurses

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Skin redness
• Mild burning sensation

Rare Risks:

• Increased risk of skin aging
• Potential skin cancer with prolonged use

Management:

• Use of soothing creams post-treatment
• Regular monitoring for any adverse effects

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Reduced inflammation and scaling in conditions like psoriasis
• Improved skin appearance
• Relief from itching and discomfort

Realization of Benefits:

• Most patients notice improvements within a few weeks of starting therapy.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Application of moisturizing creams
• Avoidance of excessive sun exposure

Recovery Time:

• There is no downtime; patients can resume their normal activities immediately.

Follow-up:

• Regular sessions may be required, as dictated by the treatment plan.

Alternatives

• Topical Treatments:
  • Less invasive but may be less effective for severe cases.
• Systemic Medications:
  • Pills or injections that affect the entire body; potential for more side effects.
• Other Light Therapies:
  • Narrowband UVB or PUVA therapy.

Pros of Alternatives:

• May be more convenient or require fewer clinic visits.

Cons of Alternatives:

• Potentially less effective or associated with more side effects.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• The patient might feel a slight warmth.

After the Procedure:

• Some skin redness or irritation may occur.
• Pain is generally minimal and manageable with soothing lotions.

Pain management and comfort measures ensure that the experience is as pleasant as possible, allowing for an effective management of the skin condition over time.