Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Torsemide Injection
• Medical Term: Injection, torsemide, 10 mg/ml (HCPCS Code: J3265)

Summary

Torsemide injection is a diuretic procedure used to help remove excess fluid from the body. It is typically administered to individuals with conditions that cause fluid retention.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions Addressed: Congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and chronic kidney disease.
• Goals/Outcomes: To reduce fluid buildup, decrease swelling (edema), and alleviate associated symptoms like shortness of breath.

Indications

• Specific Symptoms/Conditions: Severe swelling (edema), shortness of breath due to fluid retention.
• Patient Criteria: Suitable for patients who fail to respond adequately to oral diuretics or need rapid relief from fluid overload.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: No specific preparation like fasting is typically required. Patients may be advised to adjust medications.
• Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests to check electrolytes, kidney function, and overall health status might be required.

Procedure Description

1. Step-by-step Explanation:
   • The healthcare provider prepares the torsemide injection.
   • The injection site is usually an arm or a vein (intravenous).
   • The injection is administered slowly to allow the drug to enter the bloodstream.
2. Tools/Equipment: Syringes, needles, torsemide solution.
3. Anesthesia/Sedation: None required; the procedure is minimally invasive.

Duration

• Typical Duration: Approximately 5-10 minutes for the injection itself. Observation may last longer.

Setting

• Location: Hospital, outpatient clinic, or specialized facility.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals: Doctor or nurse typically administers the injection.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Injection site pain, mild dizziness, dehydration.
• Rare Risks: Electrolyte imbalance, kidney dysfunction, allergic reactions.
• Management: Immediate medical attention if severe reactions occur.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Rapid reduction in fluid buildup and relief from symptoms.
• Timeframe: Benefits are often observed within hours to days following the injection.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Monitoring of fluid intake and output, electrolyte balance.
• Recovery Time: Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately but should follow medical advice on activities and medication.
• Restrictions: Patients may be advised to reduce salt intake and monitor fluid consumption.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options: Oral diuretics, dietary modifications, other types of diuretic injections.
• Pros and Cons: Oral diuretics are less invasive but may be slower acting. Other diuretics may not be as effective in certain patients.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Slight discomfort from needle insertion, feeling of the fluid entering the vein.
• After Procedure: Possible mild dizziness. Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary. Comfort measures such as applying a warm compress to the injection site can help. Regular monitoring and follow-up to ensure efficacy and address any arising issues.