CPT® Code 0489T

1. Indications

Autologous adipose-derived regenerative cell therapy is indicated for the treatment of scleroderma in the hands, particularly in patients experiencing significant symptoms and dysfunction associated with this condition.

• Scleroderma of the Hands This condition is characterized by hardening of the skin and subcutaneous tissues, leading to various complications such as ischemia, fibrosis, and painful digital ulcers.
• Ischemia Reduced blood flow to the hands, which can result in pain and tissue damage.
• Fibrosis Thickening and scarring of the skin and connective tissues, contributing to loss of function.
• Sclerodactyly A specific manifestation of scleroderma that involves tightening of the skin on the fingers.
• Raynaud’s Phenomenon A condition that causes episodes of reduced blood flow to the fingers, often triggered by cold or stress.
• Painful Digital Ulcers Open sores on the fingers that can be painful and difficult to heal.
• Joint Pain and Stiffness Symptoms that can accompany scleroderma, affecting the overall mobility and quality of life.

2. Procedure

The procedure for autologous adipose-derived regenerative cell therapy involves several key steps that ensure the effective harvesting and preparation of adipose tissue for treatment.

• Step 1: Adipose Tissue Harvesting The first step involves the collection of adipose tissue from the patient using a small volume liposuction technique. This minimally invasive procedure allows for the extraction of fat cells while minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissues.
• Step 2: Isolation and Preparation of Cells Once the adipose tissue is harvested, it undergoes a process of isolation and preparation. This includes the use of a proprietary system platform that incubates the harvested cells with specific cell dissociation enzymes. This enzymatic treatment helps to break down the tissue and release the regenerative cells.
• Step 3: Removal of Non-Viable Cells and Debris Following incubation, the next step is to remove any non-viable cells and debris from the mixture. This is a critical step to ensure that only healthy, viable regenerative cells are retained for injection.
• Step 4: Determination of Concentration and Dilution After the preparation process, the concentration and dilution of the regenerative cells are carefully determined. This ensures that the cells are at the appropriate levels for effective therapeutic use.
• Step 5: Injection into the Patient’s Hands Finally, the prepared ADRCs are injected into the patient’s hands on the same day as the harvesting. This immediate use of the cells is essential for maximizing their therapeutic potential and addressing the symptoms of scleroderma.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients receiving autologous adipose-derived regenerative cell therapy typically involves monitoring for any immediate reactions to the injections. Patients may experience some swelling, bruising, or discomfort at the injection sites, which are generally mild and resolve within a few days. It is important for patients to follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by their healthcare provider, which may include recommendations for activity levels and pain management. Additionally, patients should be informed about the expected timeline for observing improvements in their symptoms, as the regenerative effects of the therapy may take time to manifest. Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and to monitor the patient’s progress.