Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Injection of Simulect
• Medical Term: Injection, basiliximab, 20 mg

Summary

Basiliximab injection, commonly known as Simulect, is a medication administered intravenously to help prevent acute rejection of kidney transplants. It works by suppressing certain components of the immune system that can attack the newly transplanted organ.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions Addressed: Primarily used to prevent kidney transplant rejection.
• Goals: To inhibit immune response that could lead to rejection of the transplanted kidney, thereby improving the success rate of the transplant and the overall health and well-being of the patient.

Indications

• Symptoms/Conditions Warranting Procedure: Patients who have undergone a kidney transplant.
• Patient Criteria: Patients who are at high risk of transplant rejection and are suitable candidates for immunosuppressive therapy with basiliximab.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions:
  • Fasting is generally not required.
  • Medication adjustments depend on patient history and co-morbid conditions; consult your healthcare provider.
• Diagnostic Tests: Kidney function tests, complete blood count, and other routine pre-operative evaluations.

Procedure Description

1. Administration Site: Usually administered intravenously.
2. Dosage: 20 mg of basiliximab, given as an injection.
3. Tools/Equipment: Standard IV setup.
4. Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required; the procedure is minimally invasive.

Duration

• Typical Duration: The administration of the medication takes about 30 minutes.

Setting

• Location: Usually performed in a hospital setting or outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals Involved:

  • Nephrologist or transplant surgeon
  • Registered nurse
  • Pharmacist (for medication preparation)

  Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Pain at injection site, possible mild allergic reactions.
• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions, infections due to immunosuppression, potential toxicity if overdosed.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Reduced risk of kidney transplant rejection, improved graft function.
• Realization Time: Benefits are typically realized within a few days to a few weeks after transplantation.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Monitor for signs of infection or allergic reaction.
• Recovery Time: Minimal to no downtime; patients can usually resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor kidney function and overall health.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options: Other immunosuppressive drugs, alternative biological agents.
• Pros and Cons of Alternatives: Varies; some alternatives may have different side effect profiles or efficacy rates.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Mild discomfort at the injection site; the procedure is generally well tolerated.
• After Procedure: Monitoring for adverse reactions; pain management typically not necessary beyond initial injection site discomfort.