Name of the Procedure:

Biodfence, per square centimeter (HCPCS Code: Q4140)

Common Names: Biodfence Technical/Medical Terms: Biodfence Wound Matrix Application

Summary

Biodfence is a procedure where a specially designed wound matrix is applied to promote healing and protect the skin over large chronic wounds, burns, or surgical sites. This bioengineered material supports tissue regeneration and repair.

Purpose

Conditions Addressed:

• Chronic wounds (e.g., diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers)
• Burns
• Post-surgical sites

Goals/Outcomes:

• Accelerate wound healing
• Provide a protective barrier
• Reduce the risk of infection
• Improve overall tissue regeneration

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Non-healing ulcers and wounds
• Injuries from burns requiring advanced healing techniques
• Surgical wounds that need additional support in healing

Patient Criteria:

• Patients with chronic, non-healing wounds
• Patients with compromised healing due to underlying conditions like diabetes
• Individuals who have failed to respond to traditional wound care treatments

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Fasting is generally not required.
• Medication adjustments may be advised, particularly anticoagulants, under medical guidance.

Diagnostic Tests/Assessments:

• Wound assessment by a healthcare professional
• Possibly blood tests to ensure no underlying infections or conditions that might complicate the procedure

Procedure Description

Steps Involved:

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, and the wound area is cleaned and disinfected.
2. The Biodfence wound matrix is carefully cut to fit the wound size.
3. The matrix is then placed directly onto the wound bed.
4. It is secured with appropriate dressings to keep it in place.

Tools/Equipment:

• Sterile scissors and forceps
• Biodfence wound matrix
• Sterile dressings and tapes

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Typically, local anesthesia may be used if the patient experiences discomfort.

Duration

Typical Time:

• The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the wound size and complexity.

Setting

Performed In:

• Outpatient clinic
• Hospital wound care center
• Surgical center
• Sometimes home care settings with professional supervision

Personnel

Involved Professionals:

• Wound care specialist or surgeon
• Nurses with training in advanced wound care
• Anesthesiologist (if local anesthesia is required)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Mild pain at the application site
• Minor bleeding or irritation

Rare Risks:

• Infection
• Allergic reaction to the matrix material
• Inadequate adherence of the matrix needing reapplication

Management of Complications:

• Antibiotics for infection
• Pain management strategies
• Follow-up visits for monitoring and addressing any issues

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Enhanced wound healing
• Reduced healing time
• Lower risk of infection

Timeframe for Benefits:

• Benefits often become noticeable within a few weeks post-application.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Keep the affected area clean and dry.
• Change dressings as instructed by healthcare providers.
• Avoid strenuous activities that might affect the wound site.

Recovery Time:

• Varies by individual; typically, several weeks to a few months.

Restrictions/Follow-up:

• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process
• Adherence to wound care protocols as advised

Alternatives

Other Options:

• Traditional wound dressings and bandages
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
• Skin grafts or flaps

Pros and Cons:

• Traditional dressings might be less expensive but slower in promoting healing.
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is effective but less convenient.
• Skin grafts offer a permanent solution but involve more invasive surgery.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Some discomfort or pain due to the application process.
• Local anesthesia might cause a slight numbness.

After the Procedure:

• Mild discomfort or itching as it heals.
• Pain relief medications might be prescribed.
• Regular dressing changes will be necessary.
• Likely improvement in wound appearance within weeks.

Pain Management:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Prescription pain medication if needed
• Adherence to wound care instructions to minimize discomfort.