Name of the Procedure:

Injection, Tobramycin Sulfate, up to 80 mg (HCPCS Code: J3260)

Summary

The injection of tobramycin sulfate involves administering a specific dose of this antibiotic directly into the body to treat bacterial infections. Tobramycin sulfate is a powerful antibiotic used to target and kill bacteria in various tissues and fluids.

Purpose

The procedure aims to treat bacterial infections effectively. It is often used when:

• Oral antibiotics are inadequate or inappropriate.
• There is a severe infection requiring immediate action.

The goal is to reduce bacterial load, mitigate infection symptoms, and prevent the spread of the infection.

Indications

• Severe or complicated skin, bone, or joint infections.
• Infections in people who are immunocompromised.
• Bacterial infections that are resistant to other antibiotics.
• Respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and intra-abdominal infections.

Preparation

• Patients may need to disclose any allergies, especially to antibiotics.
• No specific fasting is typically required unless advised by the healthcare provider.
• Diagnostic tests such as blood tests or cultures may be performed to identify the infection-causing bacteria.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider will clean the injection site, usually on the arm, thigh, or buttocks.
2. Tobramycin sulfate is drawn into a syringe.
3. The provider administers the injection subcutaneously, intramuscularly, or intravenously.
4. Injection sites are monitored for any immediate allergic reactions.

Tools/Equipment:

• Syringe
• Alcohol swab
• Bandage (if necessary)

Anesthesia:

• Usually, no anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The injection process usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes.

Setting

The procedure can be performed in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, or a physician's office.

Personnel

• Physician or Nurse Practitioner
• Registered Nurse

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Minor pain or redness at the injection site
• Mild allergic reactions

Rare Risks:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Kidney toxicity (nephrotoxicity)
• Hearing damage (ototoxicity)

Benefits

• Rapid response to bacterial infections.
• Reduction in infection severity and symptoms within a few days.
• Prevention of infection spread.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery time; patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments may be required to assess infection clearance.
• Monitoring for side effects, particularly kidney function and hearing, might be necessary.

Alternatives

• Oral antibiotics for less severe infections.
• Other intravenous antibiotics depending on the bacteria and patient tolerance.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Oral antibiotics are less invasive but may be less potent.
• Other IV antibiotics might be more suitable depending on susceptibility patterns but might carry different side effects.

Patient Experience

During the procedure:

• Patients might feel a brief sting or discomfort at the injection site.

After the procedure:

• Pain at the injection site can be managed with mild pain relievers if necessary.
• Patients may resume normal activities almost immediately, but should report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.