Name of the Procedure:

Injection, Fluorouracil, 500 mg (J9190)

• Common names: Fluorouracil injection, 5-FU injection
• Medical terms: Fluorouracil, 5-Fluorouracil, 5-FU

Summary

Fluorouracil injection is a chemotherapy treatment used to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. It involves administering a 500 mg dose of fluorouracil into a vein (intravenous) to treat certain types of cancer.

Purpose

The primary purpose of fluorouracil injection is to treat cancers, particularly gastrointestinal, breast, and skin cancers. The goal is to reduce the size of tumors, prevent the spread of cancer cells, and improve survival rates.

Indications

Fluorouracil injection is indicated for patients diagnosed with:

• Colorectal cancer
• Breast cancer
• Stomach cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Skin cancer (topically in different formulations)

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to fast a few hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary, especially for blood thinners or other chemotherapy drugs.
• Baseline blood tests (e.g., complete blood count, liver function tests) may be required.
• Imaging studies like CT scans might be done to assess tumor status.

Procedure Description

1. Assessment: The patient's health and readiness for chemotherapy are evaluated.
2. Placement: An intravenous (IV) line is placed in a vein, typically in the arm.
3. Dosage: The exact dose of 500 mg of fluorouracil is prepared.
4. Administration: The drug is slowly injected into the IV line.
5. Monitoring: The patient is monitored for any immediate reactions during and after the injection.

Tools/Equipment: IV cannula, syringes, saline solution, infusion pump (if required).

Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required.

Duration

The entire procedure, including preparation and recovery monitoring, usually takes 1-2 hours. The actual injection of fluorouracil may take about 30-60 minutes.

Setting

Typically performed in a hospital's oncology department or an outpatient chemotherapy clinic.

Personnel

• Oncologist or chemotherapy specialist
• Oncology nurses
• Pharmacist (for drug preparation)
• Medical assistants

Risks and Complications

• Common: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mouth sores, hand-foot syndrome (redness, swelling, and pain on the palms and soles).
• Rare: Severe allergic reactions, low white blood cell count (neutropenia), heart problems.

Benefits

• Shrinking tumors and reducing cancer cell proliferation.
• Extending survival rates.
• Alleviating symptoms caused by tumors (e.g., pain, bleeding).

Benefits may be realized within a few weeks to months depending on the type and stage of cancer.

Recovery

• Post-procedure: Patients may need to rest for a few hours and stay hydrated.
• Monitor for side effects at home; follow up with regular blood tests.
• Restrictions: Avoid exposure to infections, eat a nutritious diet, and stay hydrated.
• Follow-up appointments for assessing treatment efficacy.

Alternatives

• Surgery: To remove tumors.
• Radiation therapy: To kill cancer cells.
• Other chemotherapy drugs: Depending on the cancer type.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the body's immune response against cancer.

Pros: Alternatives may be effective for different types or stages of cancer. Cons: Each alternative has its own side effect profile and may not be suitable for all patients.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients might feel a slight pinch when the IV is inserted and a mild sensation of cold or warmth as the drug is injected. Post-procedure, side effects such as fatigue and nausea are common but manageable with medications. Comfort measures include anti-nausea drugs, pain relief options, and support from healthcare providers.