Name of the Procedure:

Tobacco Cessation Intervention (G9906)

• Common Name: Smoking Cessation Counseling
• Medical Term: Tobacco Use Disorder Intervention

Summary

Tobacco cessation intervention is designed to help individuals quit smoking or using other tobacco products. It may include counseling sessions and/or pharmacotherapy such as nicotine replacement therapy or prescription medications.

Purpose

The main goal is to support patients in overcoming nicotine addiction. This significantly reduces the risk of tobacco-related diseases such as lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke, and improves overall health.

Indications

• Smoking or tobacco use
• High risk of tobacco-related diseases
• Patients motivated to quit but seeking professional help
• Pregnant women using tobacco

Preparation

• No special preparation is needed.
• Patients may be asked about their smoking habits, readiness to quit, and previous quit attempts.
• A health assessment may be conducted to determine the best intervention approach.

Procedure Description

1. Counseling: Typically involves one-on-one sessions with a healthcare provider who offers support, sets a quit date, discusses strategies to avoid triggers, and provides motivation.
2. Pharmacotherapy: May include nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, or prescription medications like varenicline or bupropion.
3. Follow-up: Regular follow-up sessions to monitor progress and adjust the plan as needed.

Tools and equipment include counseling materials, nicotine replacement products, or prescription medications. No anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

• Each counseling session may last 10-30 minutes.
• Duration of pharmacotherapy can vary but often spans 8-12 weeks.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Primary care office
• Telehealth/online platforms

Personnel

• Primary care physicians
• Nurses
• Smoking cessation counselors
• Pharmacists

Risks and Complications

• Counseling: Very low risk; mainly involves emotional support.
• Pharmacotherapy: Potential side effects include nausea, insomnia, vivid dreams, or skin irritation (patches). Rarely, more serious side effects can occur and need medical attention.

Benefits

• Reduced risk of serious health conditions related to tobacco use.
• Improved respiratory and cardiovascular health.
• Enhanced quality of life.

Recovery

• Ongoing support is often needed.
• No physical recovery period, but emotional and behavioral adjustments are crucial.
• Follow-up appointments are important to track progress and address any issues.

Alternatives

• Cold Turkey: Quitting without any professional help—success rates are lower.
• Support Groups: Local or online groups offer community support but may lack personalized professional advice.
• Self-Help Resources: Books, apps, or online courses—useful but may not be as effective as combined counseling and pharmacotherapy.

Patient Experience

• During: Patients may feel supported and motivated during counseling sessions.
• After: May experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, or cravings. Pain management is generally not needed.
• Emotional support and coping strategies are critical to comfort measures.