Dornase alfa, inhalation solution, fda-approved final product, non-compounded, administered through dme, unit dose form, per milligram
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Dornase Alfa Inhalation Solution
Common name: Pulmozyme
Technical or medical term: Dornase Alfa, inhalation solution, FDA-approved final product, non-compounded, administered through DME, unit dose form, per milligram (J7639).
Summary
Dornase Alfa inhalation solution is a medication used to improve lung function in patients by breaking down mucus in the airways. Administered through a nebulizer, this FDA-approved treatment helps patients breathe easier by reducing mucus buildup.
Purpose
Medical Conditions: Cystic fibrosis and other conditions involving thick mucus in the lungs. Goals/Outcomes: The primary goal of Dornase Alfa inhalation is to clear mucus from the lungs, thereby reducing the risk of infection, improving lung function, and making it easier for patients to breathe.
Indications
Symptoms/Conditions: Patients with cystic fibrosis who suffer from thick, sticky mucus that obstructs the airways. Criteria: Prescription by a healthcare provider, after assessment of the patient's condition and confirmation of a diagnosis requiring mucus management.
Preparation
Pre-procedure Instructions:
- Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
- No special preparation like fasting is required. Diagnostic Tests:
- Lung function tests or other assessments to establish baseline respiratory status.
Procedure Description
Step-by-Step:
- A prescribed dose of Dornase Alfa is placed into the nebulizer.
- The patient inhales the medication through a mouthpiece or face mask connected to the nebulizer.
- The nebulizer turns the liquid medication into a fine mist, allowing it to be inhaled into the lungs. Tools/Equipment: Nebulizer machine and mask/mouthpiece. Anesthesia/Sedation: Not required.
Duration
Time Taken: The inhalation process typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Setting
Location: Can be performed at home, in a hospital, or at an outpatient clinic.
Personnel
Healthcare Professionals: Primarily managed by the patient at home, with initial instructions and follow-up care provided by respiratory therapists, nurses, or physicians.
Risks and Complications
Common Risks:
- Voice alteration
- Sore throat
- Rash
- Conjunctivitis Rare Risks:
- Severe allergic reactions
- Difficulty breathing Management: Monitoring and supportive care; seek immediate medical attention for severe reactions.
Benefits
Expected Benefits:
- Reduced mucus viscosity, improved airway clearance.
- Decreased frequency of lung infections.
- Improved lung function and easier breathing. Timeframe: Benefits can be realized within days to weeks of consistent use.
Recovery
Post-Procedure Care: No specific recovery protocol; patients can resume normal activities immediately. Restrictions: None; follow prescribed treatment schedule. Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor lung function and progress.
Alternatives
Other Treatments:
- Hypertonic saline inhalation
- Chest physiotherapy Pros and Cons:
- Hypertonic Saline: Also helps clear mucus but may cause more irritation.
- Chest Physiotherapy: Effective but requires more time and effort.
Patient Experience
During Procedure: Patients might feel a slight tingling sensation and taste the medication. Some may experience mild throat discomfort. Post-Procedure: Typically, there is little to no discomfort after the procedure. Any mild side effects like voice changes or sore throat generally resolve on their own. Pain Management: Typically not required; however, any discomfort can be managed with common remedies as advised by a healthcare provider.