Name of the Procedure:

Injection, secretin, synthetic, human, 1 microgram (HCPCS Code: J2850).

Summary

An injection of synthetic human secretin is a medical procedure used primarily to test how well the pancreas functions. This is achieved by injecting secretin, a hormone that stimulates the pancreas to release digestive juices.

Purpose

This procedure is used to diagnose pancreatic insufficiency and other related conditions. The goal is to evaluate the secretory function of the pancreas, which is crucial for diagnosing certain digestive disorders.

Indications

• Chronic pancreatitis
• Cystic fibrosis
• Pancreatic tumors
• Unexplained abdominal pain or digestive issues
• Confirmatory test for gastrinomas

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a certain period before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments might be required under the physician's advice.
• Specific diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies or blood tests, might be performed beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, usually in a reclining chair or on a bed.
2. An intravenous (IV) line is placed for the injection.
3. Synthetic human secretin is injected into the bloodstream through the IV line.
4. Blood samples may be taken at specific intervals to measure the pancreatic response.
5. The procedure requires monitoring by healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used:

• IV catheter
• Synthetic human secretin
• Blood sampling kits

Anesthesia or Sedation:

No anesthesia or sedation is typically required, as this is a minimally invasive procedure.

Duration

The procedure generally lasts between 1 to 2 hours, including preparation and monitoring time.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in a hospital or an outpatient clinic specializing in gastroenterology.

Personnel

• Gastroenterologist or endocrinologist
• Registered nurse
• Laboratory technician

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Mild discomfort at the injection site
• Nausea ##### Rare Risks:
• Allergic reaction
• Infection at the injection site

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of pancreatic function
• Helps tailor specific treatments for digestive disorders
• Results are usually available within a few days to a week

Recovery

• Patients can generally resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Hydration is advised to help with recovery.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss test results and next steps.

Alternatives

• Fecal elastase test
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
• Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Fecal elastase test is non-invasive but less direct.
• EUS provides detailed imaging but is more invasive.
• MRCP offers comprehensive imaging but can be costly and less specific for function.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, the patient might feel a slight pinch from the IV needle.
• Some may experience mild nausea post-injection.
• The healthcare team provides pain management strategies and comfort measures as needed.