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Rhinophototherapy, also known as light therapy applied inside the nose, is a therapeutic approach designed to manage hay fever, a common allergic condition. This innovative treatment utilizes a combination of ultraviolet and visible light, which is administered intranasally. The procedure is typically performed multiple times a week over a course of several weeks to achieve optimal results. The mechanism of action for rhinophototherapy involves the suppression of the body's overactive immune response, which is often responsible for the symptoms associated with allergies. This is accomplished by inducing a specific type of cell death that targets and reduces the number of certain inflammatory cells and their mediators. Additionally, rhinophototherapy plays a crucial role in preventing the release of histamine from mast cells, a key contributor to allergic reactions. By addressing these underlying processes, rhinophototherapy aims to alleviate the symptoms of hay fever and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.
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The indications for rhinophototherapy include the management of hay fever, which is characterized by symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. This therapy is particularly beneficial for patients who experience allergic rhinitis due to environmental allergens.
The procedure for rhinophototherapy involves several key steps that ensure effective treatment. First, the patient is positioned comfortably to allow easy access to the nasal passages. The clinician then prepares the phototherapy device, which emits both ultraviolet and visible light. Once the device is ready, the clinician carefully applies the light intranasally, ensuring that both nostrils receive equal exposure to the therapeutic light. This application is typically performed in a controlled environment to maximize safety and efficacy. The duration and frequency of the treatment sessions may vary, but it is common for patients to undergo this therapy several times a week over a span of a few weeks. Throughout the procedure, the clinician monitors the patient for any adverse reactions and adjusts the treatment parameters as necessary to optimize outcomes.
After the rhinophototherapy procedure, patients may be advised to avoid exposure to irritants such as smoke or strong odors that could exacerbate their symptoms. It is also important for patients to follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by the clinician, which may include recommendations for hydration and nasal care. Patients should be monitored for any immediate side effects, and follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments to the therapy plan. Overall, the expected recovery period is generally short, with many patients experiencing relief from their hay fever symptoms shortly after completing the treatment course.
| Short Descr | RHINOPHOTOTX LIGHT APP BILAT | Medium Descr | RHINOPHOTOTHERAPY APPLICATION LIGHT BILATERAL | Long Descr | Rhinophototherapy, intranasal application of ultraviolet and visible light, bilateral | Status Code | Carriers Price the Code | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Discontinued Code | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | none | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 32 - Other non-OR therapeutic procedures on nose, mouth and pharynx |
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| 2012-01-01 | Deleted | Code deleted. See 30999 |
| 2007-01-01 | Added | Code added. |
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