Nushield, Per Square Centimeter (Q4160) Procedure Summary

Name of the Procedure:

Common Name(s): Nushield Application
Technical/Medical Term: Nushield, per square centimeter (HCPCS Code Q4160)

Summary

Nushield is a biologic cover or graft designed to aid in the healing of wounds or surgical sites. This product is made from placental tissues, which contain natural elements that support tissue repair and regeneration. Nushield is applied directly to the affected area to promote optimal healing conditions.

Purpose

Nushield is primarily used to treat chronic wounds, burns, ulcers, and surgical sites that are difficult to heal. The primary goals include accelerating wound closure, reducing pain, and minimizing the risk of infection and scarring.

Indications

• Chronic non-healing wounds (e.g., diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers)
• Surgical wounds that are at risk of delayed healing or complications
• Burns and other traumatic injuries to the skin
• Situations where enhanced healing is desired due to comorbid conditions

Preparation

• Patients may need to undergo a thorough cleaning of the wound or surgical site.
• Any necessary diagnostic tests, such as wound cultures or imaging, should be performed beforehand.
• Adjustments in medications (such as blood thinners) as recommended by the healthcare provider.
• Fasting is generally not required unless directed by the healthcare provider for other reasons.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider cleans and prepares the wound or surgical site.
2. Nushield is cut to the appropriate size to cover the affected area.
3. The Nushield graft is placed directly on the wound.
4. A secondary dressing is usually applied to hold the biologic cover in place.
5. The area is monitored for correct positioning and adherence.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used

• Sterile scissors
• Nushield biologic cover

• Secondary dressing materials (e.g., bandages, adhesive strips)

  Anesthesia or Sedation Details

• Local anesthesia may be used to numb the area, especially if the procedure involves a larger wound or an area that is particularly painful.

Duration

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

Setting

Nushield application is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital wound care center, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Wound care specialist or surgeon
• Nurses to assist with preparation and dressing
• Anesthesiologist or nurse if local anesthesia is needed

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Allergic reactions to the biologic material
• Incomplete adherence of the graft
• Delayed wound healing

Benefits

• Accelerated wound healing
• Reduced pain at the wound site
• Lower risk of infection
• Minimal scarring
• Faster return to normal activities, typically noticed within weeks

Recovery

• Keep the wound clean and dry.
• Follow specific instructions for dressing changes and signs of infection.
• Take prescribed medications, such as antibiotics or pain relievers, as directed.
• Avoid strenuous activities that might disrupt the graft for a period of time, as advised by the healthcare provider.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Traditional wound dressings
• Skin grafts from other parts of the body
• Synthetic wound coverings or dressings
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

Pros and Cons of Alternatives

• Traditional dressings may require more frequent changes and have a higher risk of infection.
• Skin grafts require surgical removal of donor skin, which can lead to additional pain or scarring.
• Synthetic coverings may not provide the same biologic healing properties as Nushield.
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be effective but is time-consuming and may not be available everywhere.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients may feel slight pressure or discomfort if local anesthesia is used.
• Mild discomfort or tenderness can be expected after the procedure.
• Pain management with over-the-counter pain medications or prescriptions may be provided.
• Patients generally report increased comfort and noticeable healing within the first few weeks.