Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Injection of deferoxamine mesylate
• Technical/Medical Terms: J0895 Injection, deferoxamine mesylate, 500 mg

Summary

Deferoxamine mesylate is a medication administered via injection to remove excess iron from the body, typically used in patients with iron overload conditions resulting from frequent blood transfusions or certain genetic disorders. This treatment helps reduce iron levels and prevent organ damage.

Purpose

Medical Conditions:

• Chronic iron overload
• Hemochromatosis
• Thalassemia
• Sickle cell disease

Goals/Expected Outcomes:

• Reduction in body iron levels
• Prevention of iron-induced organ damage
• Improvement in overall health and quality of life

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Elevated serum ferritin levels
• Symptoms of iron overload (e.g., fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain)
• Complications such as liver disease, heart disease, or diabetes due to excess iron

Patient Criteria:

• Patients with chronic iron overload from blood transfusions or genetic conditions
• Individuals who do not respond well to oral iron chelators

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• No specific fasting required
• Discuss current medications with the healthcare provider
• Inform the provider of any allergies or medical conditions

Diagnostic Tests:

• Blood tests to measure serum ferritin, liver function tests, and kidney function tests

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The healthcare provider prepares the injection site, usually the abdomen or arm, by cleaning it with an antiseptic.
2. Injection: Deferoxamine mesylate is administered via intramuscular or subcutaneous injection.
3. Monitoring: The patient may be observed for a short period for any immediate adverse reactions.

Tools and Equipment:

• Sterile syringe and needle
• Deferoxamine mesylate solution
• Antiseptic wipes

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Not typically required, local topical anesthetic may be used if necessary

Duration

• The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

• Performed in a hospital outpatient clinic or a healthcare practitioner's office

Personnel

• Administered by a nurse or trained healthcare professional

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Pain or swelling at the injection site
• Allergic reactions such as rash or itching

Rare Risks:

• Serious allergic reactions like anaphylaxis
• Visual or auditory disturbances
• Respiratory complications in sensitive individuals

Management of Complications:

• Immediate discontinuation of medication
• Administration of antihistamines or corticosteroids for allergic reactions
• Emergency medical treatment for severe reactions

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Effective reduction of excess iron levels
• Prevention of potential damage to vital organs
• Improved long-term health outcomes

Timeline for Benefits:

• Benefits may be seen after several weeks to months of regular treatment.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Monitor the injection site for signs of infection or adverse reactions
• Follow up with regular blood tests to monitor iron levels

Recovery Time:

• Immediate, with minimal downtime

Restrictions/Follow-up:

• Regular follow-up appointments to assess progress and adjust dosage if necessary

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Oral iron chelators
• Phlebotomy (for patients without anemia)

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Oral iron chelators are less invasive but may have gastrointestinal side effects.
• Phlebotomy is less effective in patients with anemia and is not suitable for all populations.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Mild discomfort or stinging at the injection site

After the Procedure:

• Possible soreness or redness at the injection site
• Mild fatigue may be experienced

Pain Management and Comfort Measures:

• Use of a cold pack to reduce injection site discomfort
• Over-the-counter pain relievers if needed (as directed by the healthcare provider)