Name of the Procedure:

Injection of Icatibant, 1 mg (HCPCS Code: J1744)

Common Names: Icatibant Injection
Technical/Medical Terms: Subcutaneous injection of Icatibant, Bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist injection

Summary

Icatibant injection is a procedure in which a medication called Icatibant is administered under the skin. This medication is used to treat specific medical conditions by blocking the effects of certain substances in the body that cause inflammation and swelling.

Purpose

Medical Conditions:

• Hereditary Angioedema (HAE)

Goals/Expected Outcomes:

• To quickly reduce symptoms of acute attacks of hereditary angioedema.
• To alleviate swelling and associated discomfort within hours of administration.

Indications

Specific Symptoms/Conditions:

• Sudden, severe swelling in various parts of the body including the face, extremities, gastrointestinal tract, and airway caused by hereditary angioedema.

Patient Criteria:

• Diagnosed with hereditary angioedema.
• Experiencing an acute attack requiring prompt intervention.

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments usually required.
• The patient should inform the healthcare provider of all current medications and any known allergies.

Diagnostic Tests/Assessments:

• Confirmation of hereditary angioedema diagnosis.
• Physical examination to confirm the acute attack.

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. The healthcare provider will prepare the icatibant solution.
2. The injection site (typically the abdominal area) will be cleaned with an antiseptic.
3. Using a subcutaneous injection technique, the healthcare provider will inject Icatibant.
4. The site might be massaged gently to aid the dispersion of the medication.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology:

• Sterile syringe and needle
• Antiseptic solution

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not typically required; local anesthesia might be used in sensitive cases.

Duration

The injection procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes from preparation to completion.

Setting

Performed in outpatient settings such as a hospital, outpatient clinic, or under certain circumstances, at home under guidance.

Personnel

Healthcare Professionals Involved:

• Nurse or trained medical professional administering the injection
• Physician overseeing the treatment plan

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Site reactions (redness, pain, swelling)
• Mild headaches or dizziness

Rare Risks:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Injection site infection

Management:

• Monitoring for signs of adverse reactions post-injection
• Immediate medical attention if severe reactions occur

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Rapid relief from swelling and pain associated with acute attacks of hereditary angioedema. Onset of Benefits:
• Most patients experience symptom relief within hours of injection.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Observation for immediate adverse reactions
• Keeping the injection site clean and dry

Expected Recovery Time:

• Most patients can resume normal activities immediately. Restrictions/Follow-Up:
• Follow-up appointment may be scheduled to assess overall condition and response to treatment.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Oral medications (e.g., C1 inhibitors)
• Other subcutaneous or intravenous therapies

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Oral medications may not provide as rapid relief.
• Some alternatives require more frequent dosing and medical oversight.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Mild discomfort at the injection site.

After the Procedure:

• Improved symptoms typically noted within a few hours
• Local tenderness at the injection site may persist for a short time.

Pain Management:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended for minor discomfort.