Name of the Procedure:

Injection, certolizumab pegol, 1 mg

Common Name(s):

• Cimzia Injection
• Certolizumab pegol administration

Technical/Medical Terms:

• HCPCS Code J0717

Summary

Certolizumab pegol is a medication administered via injection to treat certain autoimmune conditions. Under code J0717, it involves the administration of 1 mg of certolizumab pegol under the supervision of a physician, and is not meant for self-administration.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Crohn's Disease
• Psoriatic Arthritis
• Ankylosing Spondylitis

Goals:

• Reduce inflammation
• Alleviate pain and swelling
• Improve physical function
• Slow the progression of the autoimmune disease

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions:

• Chronic joint pain and swelling
• Persistent gastrointestinal discomfort related to Crohn's Disease
• Immune system-related skin conditions

Patient Criteria:

• Diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder
• Inadequate response to other treatments
• Medically appropriate as determined by a healthcare provider

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• No specific dietary restrictions
• Review current medications with your physician
• Blood tests to assess baseline health parameters

Required Assessments:

• Complete blood count
• Liver function tests
• Tuberculosis screening

Procedure Description

1. Prep Area: Clean injection site with alcohol swab.
2. Draw Medication: Measure the correct dosage of certolizumab pegol.
3. Administer Injection: Insert needle into the subcutaneous tissue, typically in the thigh or abdomen.
4. Apply Pressure: Light pressure applied with a gauze after injection to prevent bleeding.

Tools/Equipment:

• Syringe and needle
• Alcohol swabs
• Gauze

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Typically not required

Duration

• Approximately 15-30 minutes

Setting

• Hospital
• Outpatient clinic
• Physician's office

Personnel

• Physician
• Registered Nurse (RN)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling)
• Mild itching or discomfort

Rare Risks:

• Serious infections
• Allergic reactions
• Blood dyscrasias (rare blood abnormalities)

Complications:

• Monitoring and treatment of any adverse reactions

Benefits

• Reduced symptoms and improved quality of life
• Effects typically observed within a few weeks of treatment

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Monitor injection site for adverse reactions
• Follow up with physician as recommended

Expected Recovery:

• No significant downtime; can resume normal activities immediately
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Oral medications (e.g., NSAIDs, DMARDs)
• Biologic agents of different classes
• Physical therapy

Pros and Cons:

• Oral medications may have different side effect profiles and convenience factors
• Other biologic agents may be more appropriate depending on individual response

Patient Experience

During Procedure:

• Mild discomfort or stinging sensation at injection site

After Procedure:

• Possible site soreness
• Pain management with over-the-counter pain relief

Comfort Measures:

• Application of ice pack to reduce swelling
• Gentle movement and stretching to alleviate soreness

Note: Always discuss with your healthcare provider for individualized care and instructions.