Name of the Procedure:

Ultrasonic Guidance for Placement of Radiation Therapy Fields (HCPCS Code: G6001)

Summary

Ultrasonic guidance for placement of radiation therapy fields is a procedure where ultrasound technology is used to accurately guide and position radiation beams during cancer treatment. It helps ensure that the radiation targets the tumor precisely while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

Purpose

This procedure is utilized primarily in cancer treatment to:

• Enhance the precision of radiation therapy.
• Ensure the accurate placement of radiation fields.
• Reduce the exposure of healthy tissues to radiation.

Indications

• Patients diagnosed with various types of cancers requiring radiation therapy.
• Need for precise targeting of radiation to minimize damage to adjacent healthy tissue.
• Tumors located in areas where precision is critical (e.g., near vital organs).

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a certain period before the procedure.
• Adjustments to regular medications might be necessary as advised by the healthcare provider.
• Pre-procedure imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs may be performed to map the tumor's location.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned on the treatment table.
2. An ultrasound probe is used to visualize the target area.
3. The radiation therapist or oncologist uses the ultrasound images to guide the placement of radiation fields.
4. Radiation beams are then precisely directed at the tumor, ensuring minimal exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
5. The ultrasound is continuously used to monitor and adjust the placement in real-time.

• Tools and Technology: Ultrasound machine, radiation therapy equipment.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Typically, none required as the procedure is non-invasive.

Duration

The entire procedure generally takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity and location of the tumor.

Setting

Typically performed in a hospital's radiation oncology department or an outpatient radiation therapy center.

Personnel

• Radiation oncologist
• Radiation therapist
• Medical physicist
• Oncology nurse

Risks and Complications

• Minor discomfort from the ultrasound probe.
• Possible but rare allergic reaction to ultrasound gel.
• Misalignment of radiation fields if images are not correctly interpreted; however, this is mitigated by the precision of ultrasonic guidance.

Benefits

• Increased accuracy in targeting the tumor, leading to more effective treatment.
• Reduced risk of side effects by sparing healthy tissues from unnecessary radiation exposure.
• Improved overall outcomes and potentially faster recovery times.

Recovery

• No significant recovery time needed as it is a non-invasive procedure.
• Patients can usually return to their normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up radiation sessions may be required as part of the overall treatment plan.

Alternatives

• Standard radiation therapy without ultrasonic guidance.
  • Pros: Standard and widely available.
  • Cons: Less precise; higher risk of radiation exposure to healthy tissues.
• MRI or CT-guided radiation therapy.
  • Pros: High precision.
  • Cons: More expensive; may not be as widely available as ultrasound guidance.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel a slight pressure from the ultrasound probe but should not experience pain. After the procedure, they can resume normal activities with minimal discomfort. Pain management is typically not needed, but relaxation techniques and support from the care team can enhance comfort.