Injection, Trastuzumab, 10 mg and Hyaluronidase-oysk (J9356)

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Trastuzumab and Hyaluronidase Injection
• Medical Term: Injection, trastuzumab, 10 mg and hyaluronidase-oysk (HCPCS Code J9356)

Summary

This procedure involves injecting a combination of trastuzumab and hyaluronidase under the skin. Trastuzumab is a targeted therapy used to treat certain types of breast cancer, while hyaluronidase helps the body absorb the trastuzumab more efficiently.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions Addressed: This injection is primarily used for treating HER2-positive breast cancer.
• Goals/Outcomes: The goal is to target and inhibit the growth of cancer cells, potentially leading to tumor reduction or stabilization and improved survival rates.

Indications

• Specific Symptoms/Conditions: Indicated for patients with HER2-positive early breast cancer, metastatic breast cancer, and as adjuvant therapy.
• Patient Criteria: Suitable for patients diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer, based on biopsy and other diagnostic tests.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions:
  • No fasting is typically required.
  • Patients may need to adjust certain medications (consult with the healthcare provider).
• Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests, imaging scans, and a HER2 test to confirm the cancer's HER2-positive status.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The healthcare provider will clean the injection site, usually the thigh or abdomen.
2. Administration: The combination of trastuzumab and hyaluronidase is injected subcutaneously using a pre-filled syringe.
3. Monitoring: The patient may be monitored for allergic reactions or side effects immediately after the injection.
   • Tools Used: Pre-filled syringe and needle.
   • Anesthesia/Sedation: Typically, no anesthesia is required. Local numbing cream might be used to minimize discomfort.

Duration

The injection itself takes approximately 2-5 minutes.

Setting

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

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals Involved:
  • Oncologist or specialized nurse for the administration
  • Additional nursing staff for patient monitoring and support

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Pain or redness at the injection site, mild allergic reactions, fatigue.
• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions, heart problems, lung problems. Management involves immediate medical intervention if severe complications arise.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Potential reduction in tumor size, disease stabilization, and improved survival rates.
• Time Frame: Benefits can be seen in a few weeks to several months, depending on individual response.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Regular monitoring for side effects, maintain a record of any adverse reactions.
• Estimated Recovery Time: No recovery time needed; patients can often resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-ups with the oncologist to monitor effectiveness and manage any side effects.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options: Surgery, radiation therapy, other chemotherapy drugs.
• Pros and Cons: Alternatives might involve invasive procedures or different side effect profiles. Trastuzumab and hyaluronidase injection is less invasive and can be more convenient.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients may feel a slight sting or discomfort at the injection site.
• After the Procedure: Some soreness or mild swelling at the injection site is common. For pain management, over-the-counter pain relievers can be used. Nurses are available for patient support and to address any concerns.