Name of the Procedure:

External Recharging System for Battery (Internal) for Use with Implantable Neurostimulator, Replacement Only
Common Names: External Recharger, Battery Recharger
Medical Term: HCPCS Code L8689

Summary

This procedure involves replacing the external recharging system for an internal battery that powers an implantable neurostimulator. The neurostimulator is a device implanted in the body to manage chronic pain or other neurological conditions by sending electrical impulses to specific areas of the brain or nervous system.

Purpose

The main purpose of this procedure is to ensure continuous and effective functioning of the implantable neurostimulator by providing a new external recharging system. This helps in managing chronic pain conditions, movement disorders, or other neurological issues that the neurostimulator is intended to treat.

Indications

• Symptoms: Chronic pain, movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease, certain psychiatric conditions.
• Conditions: Patients with a previously implanted neurostimulator whose external recharging system has reached its end of life or is malfunctioning.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure: Patients are usually advised to follow their routine activities as the procedure does not typically require special preparation.
• Assessments: A check-up to ensure the neurostimulator is functioning correctly and an evaluation of the current external recharging system.

Procedure Description

1. Initialization: The healthcare provider will explain the procedure and answer any questions.
2. Inspection: The old external recharging system is examined to confirm dysfunction.
3. Replacement: The old system is detached, and the new external recharging system is carefully aligned and connected to the internal battery setup.
4. Testing: The new system is tested to ensure it is charging the internal battery correctly.

No anesthesia or sedation is generally required as this is a non-invasive replacement procedure. The primary tool used is the new external recharger unit itself.

Duration

The replacement process typically takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized neurostimulator treatment center.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals: Trained clinicians, such as a neurologist or a specialist nurse.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Discomfort during the procedure, mild skin irritation.
• Rare Risks: Infection, allergic reaction to device materials, malfunction of the new recharging system.
• Management: Monitoring for adverse reactions and prompt medical attention if complications occur.

Benefits

• Benefits: Restoration of the neurostimulator’s full functionality, relief from chronic pain or neurological symptoms.
• Timing: Benefits are often realized immediately or within a few days post-procedure.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Patients may resume normal activities immediately.
• Expected Time: Immediate recovery with no downtime.
• Restrictions or Follow-Up: Routine checks to ensure the new system is working; no significant restrictions.

Alternatives

• Alternative Treatments: Surgical battery replacement, alternative pain management therapies.
• Pros and Cons: Surgical interventions are more invasive with longer recovery but permanent; alternative therapies may not provide the same level of symptom control.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Minimal discomfort, usually experienced during alignment and testing phases.
• After Procedure: Slight skin irritation possible; otherwise, patients should feel improved system performance and symptom relief. Pain management typically not necessary due to the non-invasive nature of the procedure.