Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Palingen or ProMatrix
Medical Term: Human Amniotic Membrane Scaffold Injection (HCPCS Code: Q4174)

Summary

Palingen or ProMatrix involves injecting a solution made from human amniotic membrane into a targeted area of the body. This is used to promote healing and tissue regeneration through its rich content of growth factors and extracellular matrix components.

Purpose

The procedure is primarily used to aid in the healing of wounds, burns, ulcers, and surgical incisions that are not healing properly. The goal is to facilitate faster and more complete tissue repair and reduce the risk of infection or complications from chronic wounds.

Indications

• Chronic wounds (e.g., diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers)
• Burns that are not healing with standard treatment
• Surgical wounds needing enhanced healing
• Soft tissue defects and injuries
• Patients with compromised healing capability due to conditions such as diabetes

Preparation

• Patients may need to stop certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) based on physician advice.
• Fasting is generally not required unless combined with a more invasive procedure requiring sedation.
• Pre-procedure assessment includes a detailed wound examination, blood tests, and sometimes imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs.

Procedure Description

1. Pre-Cleaning: The affected area is cleaned thoroughly to maintain a sterile environment.
2. Application: A specific dose (0.36 mg per 0.25 cc) of the Palingen or ProMatrix solution is prepared.
3. Injection: The solution is injected into the targeted tissue area using a sterile syringe.
4. Dressing: The wound or injection site might be covered with a protective dressing to maintain a sterile and moist environment.

Tools and equipment involved may include sterile syringes, needles, and wound dressings. Local anesthesia is often administered to minimize discomfort during the injection.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the size and number of areas being treated.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in outpatient clinics, wound care centers, or specialized surgical centers.

Personnel

• Wound care specialist or surgeon
• Nursing staff
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (if anesthesia is required)

Risks and Complications

• Pain or discomfort at the injection site
• Risk of infection
• Allergic reactions
• In rare cases, there might be an adverse reaction to the solution.

Benefits

• Enhanced wound healing
• Reduced healing time
• Lower risk of infection
• Improved cosmetic outcomes, especially for burn and surgical wounds

The benefits can often be noticed within a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the wound.

Recovery

• Keep the wound clean and dry following healthcare provider instructions.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.
• Activity restrictions may be recommended to prevent pressure or trauma to the treated area.

Typical recovery time ranges from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on wound complexity and patient health.

Alternatives

• Standard wound care (dressing changes, topical antibiotics)
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
• Skin grafts or flaps

Each alternative has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on the specific condition and patient needs.

Patient Experience

Patients might experience mild pain or discomfort during the injection, which is managed with local anesthesia. Post-procedure, some swelling or redness may occur at the injection site, which generally subsides within a few days. Pain management options may include over-the-counter pain relievers or specific prescriptions based on severity.

Overall, the procedure aims to improve patient comfort and outcomes by promoting natural and efficient tissue healing.