Name of the Procedure:

Electrical Stimulation Device Used for Cancer Treatment (HCPCS Code E0766)

Common Name: Cancer Treatment with Electrical Stimulation
Technical Term: Electrotherapy for Cancer Management

Summary

An electrical stimulation device is used as part of cancer treatment to target cancer cells, aiming to control pain, reduce tumors, and improve the effectiveness of other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.

Purpose

This procedure addresses cancer-related symptoms and aims to:

• Relieve pain and discomfort.
• Reduce tumor size.
• Enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
• Improve overall quality of life for the patient.

Indications

Indicated for patients who:

• Are experiencing pain due to cancer.
• Have tumors that are responsive to electrotherapy.
• Are undergoing other forms of cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation, and need supplementary pain relief or tumor reduction.

Preparation

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are usually required.
• A thorough medical history and cancer assessment will be conducted.
• Possible imaging tests or scans to determine the target area for electrical stimulation.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably.
2. Electrode pads are placed strategically on the skin near the cancer-affected area.
3. Electrical impulses are delivered through the electrodes to the target area.
4. The intensity and duration of stimulation are adjusted according to the treatment plan.
5. In some settings, the procedure may be combined with other forms of therapy.

Tools and Equipment:

• Electrical stimulation device
• Electrode pads
• Monitoring equipment to track patient’s response

Anesthesia/Sedation: Typically, none is required.

Duration

Each session typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. Multiple sessions may be required over weeks or months, depending on the treatment plan.

Setting

The procedure is generally performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized cancer treatment center.

Personnel

• Oncologist or physician specialized in electrotherapy
• Registered nurse or technician trained in operating the electrical stimulation device

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Skin irritation or redness at the site of electrode placement
• Mild discomfort during the procedure

Rare Complications:

• Electrical burns
• Tissue damage
• Interference with other implanted medical devices (e.g., pacemakers)

Benefits

• Pain relief often noticeable after a few sessions.
• Potential reduction in tumor size.
• Enhanced response to chemotherapy and radiation.
• Improved quality of life and daily functioning.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery time; patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
• Care involves monitoring the skin at electrode sites for any reactions.
• Follow-up sessions as outlined in the treatment plan.

Alternatives

Other treatment options include:

• Pain management medications
• Radiotherapy
• Chemotherapy
• Surgical tumor removal
• Pros and cons: Medications may have side effects, surgeries require longer recovery, and traditional therapies might not always reduce pain effectively.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel tingling or mild discomfort during the procedure.
• Pain management strategies include adjusting the intensity of electrical stimulation.
• Post-procedure, patients can expect minor skin irritation, but this typically resolves quickly.

For detailed and personalized medical advice, please consult with your healthcare provider.