Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Injection of Brentuximab Vedotin
Technical/Medical Term: HCPCS Code J9042

Summary

Brentuximab vedotin is a medication administered via injection to treat certain types of cancer, particularly Hodgkin lymphoma and systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL). It is an antibody-drug conjugate designed to specifically target and destroy cancer cells while sparing most normal cells.

Purpose

This injection is used to treat malignancies, especially in cases where other treatments have failed or if the cancer has relapsed. The goal is to reduce or eliminate cancerous cells, slow the progression of the disease, and improve patient survival rates.

Indications

• Hodgkin lymphoma
• Systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL)
• Patients who have not responded to other treatments or have relapsed

Preparation

• No special fasting required.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
• Blood tests may be conducted to assess your overall health and organ function prior to the injection.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The healthcare provider will review your medical history and perform a physical examination.
2. Injection: The brentuximab vedotin will be administered via an intravenous (IV) line, usually in the arm.
3. Monitoring: You will be monitored during and after the injection for any adverse reactions.

Tools: IV line, sterile syringe, and brentuximab vedotin solution.
Anesthesia: Not typically required.

Duration

The injection itself typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or hospital setting.

Personnel

• Oncologist or hematologist
• Registered nurse
• Pharmacist (for medication preparation)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Peripheral neuropathy

Rare Risks:

• Serious infections
• Liver toxicity
• Infusion reactions
• Tumor lysis syndrome

Complications are managed by supportive treatments and adjusting the dosage.

Benefits

• Targeted treatment of cancer cells.
• Higher efficacy in certain types of lymphoma.
• Can be effective when other treatments have failed.

Benefits can often be seen within a few weeks to months, depending on individual response.

Recovery

• Close monitoring for side effects.
• Routine blood tests to monitor health.
• Patients may experience some fatigue, and should plan for rest and avoid strenuous activities immediately following the injection.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary for monitoring progress and managing any side effects.

Alternatives

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Bone marrow transplant

Alternative treatments have their own sets of pros and cons; for example, traditional chemotherapy may have more generalized side effects compared to targeted treatments like brentuximab vedotin.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Minimal discomfort from the IV insertion.
• Possible mild side effects during infusion.

After the Procedure:

• Fatigue, nausea, and mild discomfort may occur.
• Pain management and comfort measures include prescribed medications and rest.
• Clear instructions and support will be provided for managing any side effects.

By providing detailed information, patients can better understand their treatment options and what to expect throughout the procedure and recovery.