Injection, vinorelbine tartrate, 10 mg
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Injection, vinorelbine tartrate, 10 mg (HCPCS Code: J9390) Common name(s): Vinorelbine injection, Navelbine injection.
Summary
Vinorelbine injection is a type of chemotherapy treatment used to combat certain types of cancer. It involves administering a dose of vinorelbine tartrate, a chemotherapy drug, to inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.
Purpose
Vinorelbine injection is primarily used to treat various types of cancer, such as non-small cell lung cancer and breast cancer. The goal of the procedure is to slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells, alleviate symptoms, and improve the patient's overall quality of life.
Indications
Vinorelbine is indicated for patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer, metastatic breast cancer, and other cancers for which vinorelbine has been deemed effective by an oncologist. It is typically considered when other treatments have not been successful or are not appropriate.
Preparation
- Patients may need to undergo blood tests and other diagnostic evaluations to assess their overall health and ensure they can safely receive the treatment.
- Fasting is generally not required, but patients should follow specific instructions provided by their healthcare team.
- Certain medications may need to be adjusted or paused before the injection.
Procedure Description
Preparation:
- The medical team prepares the vinorelbine tartrate solution.
- The patient's vital signs are monitored.
Administration:
- Vinorelbine is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, meaning it is slowly injected into a vein through an IV line.
- The IV line is typically placed in the hand or arm.
Monitoring:
- The patient is monitored for any immediate reactions to the drug.
In some cases, a local anesthetic may be used to numb the area where the IV is inserted. The entire process is guided and monitored by healthcare professionals with specialized training in chemotherapy administration.
Duration
The infusion itself usually takes about 6 to 20 minutes, but the entire visit, including preparation and post-injection observation, may take 1-2 hours.
Setting
The injection is usually administered in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or specialized chemotherapy center.
Personnel
- Oncologist
- Chemotherapy nurse
- Pharmacist (to prepare the drug)
- Other supporting medical staff
Risks and Complications
Common risks include nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Rare but serious complications can include severe allergic reactions, lowered blood cell counts (which can increase infection risk), or injection site reactions. Monitoring is crucial to manage and mitigate these risks.
Benefits
The expected benefits include a reduction in tumor size, slowed cancer progression, and symptom relief, which may be realized within weeks to months, depending on the individual's response to treatment.
Recovery
Post-procedure care includes monitoring for side effects and providing medications to manage symptoms like nausea. Patients may be advised to avoid certain foods or activities for a period. Recovery time varies; some can resume normal activities shortly after, while others may need a few days to recover.
Alternatives
Other chemotherapy drugs, targeted therapies, radiation therapy, or surgical options might be considered. Each alternative has its own indications, benefits, and risks, and the choice depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health.
Patient Experience
During the injection, patients might feel a slight prick from the IV needle, and some may experience mild discomfort at the injection site. Nausea, fatigue, and overall malaise are common following the procedure. Pain management and anti-nausea medications are typically provided to enhance comfort. Regular follow-up appointments ensure the patient's response to the treatment is closely monitored and managed.