Name of the Procedure:

Low osmolar contrast material injection, 400 or greater mg/ml iodine concentration, per ml (HCPCS code Q9951)

Summary

This procedure involves administering a low osmolar contrast material with a high iodine concentration into a patient's body to enhance imaging quality during diagnostic scans such as CT (Computed Tomography) or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).

Purpose

The low osmolar contrast material helps improve the clarity and detail of imaging scans, making it easier for physicians to diagnose various medical conditions accurately. The expected outcome is clearer images for better diagnosis and treatment planning.

Indications

• Need for detailed imaging for diagnosing conditions such as tumors, vascular diseases, or internal organ abnormalities.
• Patients requiring high-quality scans where other contrast materials may be inadequate.
• Individuals undergoing routine imaging for chronic conditions needing detailed monitoring.

Preparation

• Fasting for a specific period before the procedure, typically 4-6 hours.
• Hydration instructions may be given to ensure kidneys are well-prepared to process the contrast material.
• Certain medications might need adjustment, especially if they affect kidney function (e.g., metformin).
• Blood tests to assess kidney function may be required beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned appropriately depending on the imaging technique used.
2. A healthcare professional inserts an IV line into the patient’s vein.
3. The low osmolar contrast material is injected through the IV.
4. The imaging scan (CT or MRI) is performed, capturing detailed images.
5. The IV line is removed, and the injection site is bandaged.

Tools/Equipment:

• IV line
• Low osmolar contrast material (400 or greater mg/ml iodine concentration)
• Imaging equipment (CT scanner or MRI machine)

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Not typically required, local numbing cream may be used at the injection site if needed.

Duration

The injection itself takes only a few minutes, but the entire procedure, including the imaging scan, can take between 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

• Hospital radiology department
• Outpatient imaging center
• Specialized diagnostic clinics

Personnel

• Radiologist or Diagnostic Imaging Specialist
• Nurses or Radiology Technologists

Risks and Complications

• Common: Mild allergic reactions, slight nausea, or warmth sensation.
• Rare: Severe allergic reactions, kidney function impairment, or contrast extravasation (leakage of contrast outside the vein).
• Management: Immediate medical intervention for severe reactions, monitoring kidney function post-procedure.

Benefits

• High-quality, detailed images aiding accurate diagnosis.
• Non-invasive procedure aiding comprehensive visualization of internal structures.
• Immediate results in most cases, facilitating prompt medical action.

Recovery

• Minimal downtime; patients can usually resume normal activities almost immediately.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast material from the body.
• Follow-up instructions based on individual patient cases.

Alternatives

• Non-contrast-enhanced imaging: Less detailed images.
• Use of other contrast agents: Depending on patient’s specific conditions and allergies, but might offer lesser image clarity.

Pros and Cons:

• Non-contrast imaging: No allergic reactions but less image detail.
• Other contrast agents: Lower risk of iodine side effects but may provide suboptimal images.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Slight discomfort at IV site, warm sensation or metallic taste.
• After the procedure: Minimal discomfort, hydration to flush out the contrast material.
• Pain management: Typically, no significant pain requiring management.

By understanding these aspects, patients can better prepare for and understand the low osmolar contrast material injection procedure and its vital role in medical imaging diagnostics.