Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Injection of Darzalex Faspro
• Medical Term: Injection, daratumumab, 10 mg, and hyaluronidase-fihj (HCPCS Code J9144)

Summary

This procedure involves an injection of a combination drug, daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj, used primarily for patients with certain types of blood cancers. It is designed to enhance the body's immune response against cancer cells.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: This injection is used to treat multiple myeloma and other related plasma cell neoplasms.
• Goals: The primary objective is to reduce the number of cancerous cells, alleviate symptoms, and improve the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Specific Symptoms: Fatigue, bone pain, recurrent infections, and kidney dysfunction.
• Patient Criteria: Typically prescribed for patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma or those who have not responded to other treatments.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Patients may be instructed to hydrate well and avoid certain medications. It may also require blood tests to ensure appropriate kidney and liver function.
• Assessments: Baseline blood tests and imaging studies might be necessary.

Procedure Description

1. Step-by-Step:
   • The patient receives pre-medication to prevent allergic reactions.
   • The injection site (usually the abdomen) is sterilized.
   • The drug combination is administered subcutaneously (under the skin).
2. Tools and Equipment: Syringe and needle, antiseptic wipes.
3. Anesthesia: Usually, no anesthesia is required, but a numbing cream may be applied to the injection site.

Duration

The injection procedure typically takes about 5–10 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is commonly performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital setting.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals: A registered nurse or a qualified healthcare provider administers the injection.
• Support Staff: Medical assistants may assist in preparing the patient and the medication.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Injection site reactions, fatigue, and mild nausea.
• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions, infections at the injection site, and low blood counts.
• Management: Adverse reactions are generally managed with medications and supportive care.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Reduced tumor load, symptom relief, and potentially extended survival.
• Onset of Benefits: Patients may notice symptom improvement within a few weeks to a few months.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Patients should monitor the injection site for any adverse reactions and follow up with blood tests as recommended.
• Recovery Time: Recovery is generally quick, with minimal downtime; usual activities can often be resumed immediately.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments required to monitor progress.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant, and other immunotherapy drugs.
• Pros and Cons: Alternatives may offer different side-effect profiles, lengths of treatment, and success rates.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients might feel a mild sting at the injection site, with minimal discomfort.
• After the Procedure: Some swelling or soreness at the injection site can be expected; pain management includes over-the-counter analgesics and cold packs if necessary.