Kerecis Omega3 (HCPCS Code Q4158)

Name of the Procedure

• Common Name: Kerecis Omega3
• Technical or Medical Term: Biological skin graft or implant, per square centimeter

Summary

Kerecis Omega3 is a medical procedure that involves applying a graft made from fish skin to a wound or surgical site. This fish skin graft is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and is designed to promote healing by providing natural, bio-compatible material that the body can easily integrate.

Purpose

The Kerecis Omega3 graft is used to treat and manage various types of wounds, including chronic ulcers, traumatic injuries, and surgical wounds. The goal is to accelerate the healing process, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration by utilizing the natural properties of fish skin.

Indications

• Chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and pressure sores
• Acute or traumatic wounds
• Post-surgical incisions that require enhanced healing Patients who have not responded well to traditional wound care methods or are at high risk for poor wound healing may be candidates for this procedure.

Preparation

• The patient may need to stop certain medications, such as anticoagulants, to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• The wound area will be cleaned and debrided if necessary to remove dead tissue.
• No specific fasting is generally required, but pre-procedure instructions will be provided by the healthcare team.

Procedure Description

1. The procedure typically begins with the cleaning and debridement of the wound area.
2. The Kerecis Omega3 graft is then measured and cut to fit the specific size of the wound.
3. The fish skin graft is applied directly to the wound bed.
4. It is secured in place with either sutures, staples, or an adhesive dressing.
5. A secondary dressing is often applied to protect the graft and keep it moist.

Tools and Equipment:

• Debridement tools (scalpel, scissors, curettes)
• Measuring tools (ruler or template)
• Fish skin graft
• Securing materials (sutures, staples, adhesive dressings)

Anesthesia or sedation:

• Local anesthesia may be used to numb the wound area and minimize discomfort during the procedure.

Duration

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

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Hospital wound care center
• Surgical center

Personnel

• Wound care specialist or surgeon
• Nurses
• Possibly an anesthesiologist if local anesthesia is used

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Rejection of the graft
• Allergic reaction
• Delayed wound healing
• Scar formation Most complications can be managed with appropriate follow-up care.

Benefits

• Accelerated wound healing
• Reduced inflammation
• Enhanced tissue regeneration
• Improved overall wound management Patients may see improvement in wound healing within several weeks, but this can vary based on the individual and the severity of the wound.

Recovery

• Follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.
• Instructions on how to care for the wound at home, including keeping the area clean and dry.
• Patients may need to restrict certain activities to avoid putting stress on the healing area.
• Recovery time varies but generally ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the wound's severity and location.

Alternatives

• Traditional wound dressings and care
• Other biological grafts or synthetic skin substitutes
• Negative pressure wound therapy
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy Each alternative has its own set of pros and cons, including varying costs, risks, and effectiveness levels compared to Kerecis Omega3.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel some discomfort during the procedure, especially if local anesthesia is used. Post-procedure, there may be minor pain or discomfort at the application site, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Patients are usually able to return to normal activities relatively quickly, though they should follow any specific instructions from their healthcare provider to ensure optimal healing.