Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Oxaliplatin Injection
• Technical Term: Injection, oxaliplatin, 0.5 mg (HCPCS Code: J9263)

Summary

Oxaliplatin is a chemotherapy drug used to treat certain types of cancer, including colorectal cancer. It is administered via injection into the bloodstream to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: Primarily used for colorectal cancer, and sometimes for other malignancies as determined by a healthcare provider.
• Goals: To reduce or eliminate cancer cells, shrink tumors, and prevent cancer progression.

Indications

• Persistent or metastatic colorectal cancer.
• Physician-determined need based on cancer staging and progression.
• Applicable for patients who meet specific health criteria and have been deemed suitable candidates for chemotherapy.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Patients may need to fast for a specific period, avoid certain medications, and stay hydrated.
• Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests, kidney and liver function tests, and other assessments to ensure the patient is fit for chemotherapy.

Procedure Description

1. Setup: The patient is seated or lying down comfortably.
2. IV Placement: A nurse or healthcare provider inserts an IV catheter into a vein.
3. Drug Administration: Oxaliplatin is infused through the IV over a period of 2-6 hours, often at a controlled rate.
4. Monitoring: The patient is monitored for any adverse reactions during the infusion.

• Equipment: IV catheter, infusion pump.
• Anesthesia: None required; local discomfort managed with standard pain relief measures if necessary.

Duration

• Typical Time: 2-6 hours for the infusion process.

Setting

• Location: Hospital chemotherapy unit, outpatient clinic, or specialized cancer center.

Personnel

• Involved Professionals: Oncologist, specialized nurses, and potentially a pharmacist for drug preparation.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, temporary loss of blood cell counts, peripheral neuropathy.
• Rare Complications: Severe allergic reactions, kidney or liver toxicity, infections at the injection site.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Reduction in tumor size, extended survival rates, improved quality of life.
• Onset of Benefits: Benefits may begin to be seen after several treatment cycles, usually evaluated by imaging and clinical markers.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Hydration, anti-nausea medications, pain management for peripheral neuropathy.
• Recovery Time: Varies; potential for temporary fatigue, adjustments based on individual response.
• Follow-Up: Regular blood tests, doctor visits, and imaging studies to monitor progress.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Surgery, radiation therapy, other chemotherapeutic agents, targeted therapy, immunotherapy.
• Comparison: Benefits and risks of alternatives vary; for instance, surgery may provide quicker removal of localized tumors but is more invasive.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Mild discomfort from IV placement, extended period of immobility during infusion.
• After Procedure: Fatigue, potential gastrointestinal upset, and peripheral neuropathy are common; effective pain management and supportive care measures provided.