Name of the Procedure:

Common Name(s): Chemotherapy Infusion
Technical/Medical Term: Chemotherapy administration, intravenous infusion technique; initiation in office/clinic setting with continuation in a community setting (G0498)

Summary

Chemotherapy infusion involves administering cancer-fighting drugs directly into your blood through an IV. This specific procedure starts in a medical office or clinic, using specialized equipment, and then continues at home or in another community setting.

Purpose

Chemotherapy aims to treat various types of cancer by attacking cancer cells that quickly divide and multiply. It can shrink tumors, prevent cancer spread, and relieve symptoms.

Indications

• Diagnosed with a type of cancer that responds to chemotherapy.
• Specific cancer symptoms mitigated by chemotherapy.
• Patients for whom other treatments (e.g., surgery, radiation) are not suitable or sufficient.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions:
  • Follow specific diet restrictions as advised.
  • Medication adjustments, especially if on blood thinners.
  • Hydrate well the day before.
• Assessments Required:
  • Blood tests to check organ function and blood counts.
  • Imaging studies if indicated.
  • Review medical history and current medications.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Phase in Office/Clinic:

   • The patient arrives at the office/clinic, registers, and settles in.
   • A nurse or healthcare provider inserts an IV line into a vein, typically in your arm.
   • The chemotherapy drugs are prepared and infused into the IV.
   • The infusion process uses an office-based pump and medical supplies.

2. Continuation Phase in Community Setting:

   • Patient is given instructions and sometimes a portable infusion pump to go home.
   • The infusion continues at home, monitored remotely or by visiting healthcare staff.

Tools and Equipment:

• IV line and catheter
• Infusion pump
• Chemotherapy drugs
• Protective gear for healthcare staff

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Usually not required for the insertion of IV.
• Local anesthesia may be used if needed.

Duration

• Initial infusion in the clinic: Approximately 1-3 hours.
• Continuation at home: Can vary from a few hours to overnight.

Setting

• Initial phase: Office or outpatient clinic.
• Continuation phase: Home or community setting like a rest home.

Personnel

• Oncologist
• Chemotherapy nurse
• Possibly home healthcare workers for the continuation phase

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, risk of infection.
• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions, heart complications, secondary cancers.
• Complications: Vein irritation, leakages at IV site, need for emergency care if severe reactions occur.

Benefits

• Potential to reduce or eliminate cancer.
• May shrink tumors and alleviate pain.
• Benefits can be noticeable within weeks to months after treatment starts.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Hydrate well, follow diet recommendations, manage side effects with prescribed medications.
• Expected Recovery Time: Varies per individual and cancer type; regular follow-ups needed.
• Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities, follow infection prevention measures, routine blood tests.

Alternatives

• Other Treatments: Radiation therapy, surgery, oral chemotherapy pills.
• Pros and Cons:
  • Surgery can be more invasive but may provide quicker results.
  • Radiation is less systemic but targets localized areas.
  • Oral chemotherapy is more convenient but might be less effective for some cancers.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Can expect a bit of discomfort during IV insertion. The infusion is generally painless.
• After Procedure: Fatigue, nausea, and dietary modifications may be necessary.
• Pain Management: Prescribed anti-nausea drugs, pain medications, and comfort measures like resting and hydration.