Name of the Procedure:

Patient Programmer (External) for Use with Implantable Programmable Neurostimulator Pulse Generator, Replacement Only (L8681)

Common Term: Patient Programmer Replacement Medical Term: External Patient Programmer Replacement for Implantable Neurostimulator

Summary

The patient programmer is a handheld device used to manage and adjust the settings of an implantable neurostimulator that delivers electrical impulses to nerves or muscles to alleviate chronic pain or control neurological disorders. This procedure involves replacing an existing, worn-out or malfunctioning patient programmer with a new one.

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to ensure the proper functioning of the neurostimulator by replacing a defective or outdated external patient programmer. This helps in managing chronic pain or neurological symptoms more effectively, improving the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Failure or malfunction of the current patient programmer device.
• Wear and tear or damage to the previous programmer.
• Upgraded technology necessitating a replacement.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to bring their current neurostimulator device and medical records.
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider assesses the need for replacement and reviews device compatibility.
2. The previous patient programmer is turned off and disconnected, if applicable.
3. The new patient programmer is initialized and programmed according to the patient's medical requirements.
4. The provider demonstrates the use of the new programmer to the patient, ensuring they are comfortable and confident in managing their device settings.

Tools & Equipment:

• New patient programmer device
• Programming software and any necessary connectors

Anesthesia:

• Not required; this is a non-invasive procedure.

Duration

Total time typically ranges from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on patient familiarity and training requirements.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized medical facility.

Personnel

• Neurologist or Pain Specialist
• Medical Device Technician or Nurse

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks as it is a non-invasive procedure.
• Possible complications could include device incompatibility or initial troubleshooting issues.

Benefits

• Enhanced control over neurostimulation therapy.
• Immediate improvement in managing chronic pain or neurological symptoms.
• Better device reliability and ease of use.

Recovery

• No physical recovery required as it is non-invasive.
• Patients may need a short period to adjust to using the new programmer.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor device effectiveness.

Alternatives

• Continuing with the existing programmer if functional.
• Manual adjustment by healthcare providers without a patient programmer (less convenient).
• Pharmacological management of symptoms (may have side effects).

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients can expect:

• Interactive training on the new device.
• Clear instructions on usage and troubleshooting.
• No pain or discomfort as the procedure is non-invasive.

Post-procedure, patients should:

• Practice using the new programmer.
• Contact their healthcare provider with any issues or concerns.
• Engage in normal activities without restrictions.