Case2Code

Official Description

Cryotherapy of the oral cavity using temperature regulated fluid cooling system, including placement of an oral device, monitoring of patient tolerance to treatment, and removal of the oral device

Common Language Description

Cryotherapy of the oral cavity using a temperature-regulated fluid cooling system is a specialized medical procedure designed to mitigate the effects of oral mucositis, a painful condition that can arise as a complication of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Oral mucositis is characterized by inflammation, swelling, and ulceration of the oral mucosa, leading to significant discomfort and complications in eating, speaking, and maintaining oral hygiene. The cryotherapy procedure involves the application of cold temperatures to the oral tissues, which helps to constrict blood vessels and reduce the local delivery of chemotherapy agents to the area, thereby minimizing the risk of mucositis. During the procedure, a custom-fitted mouthpiece is utilized, which is engineered to circulate temperature-controlled fluid, typically at approximately 8 degrees Celsius, through a closed system. This mouthpiece is connected to an external portable unit that ensures a consistent flow of cold water, effectively cooling the oral cavity, particularly targeting the posterior region where major arteries enter. The procedure not only requires the placement of this oral device but also involves careful monitoring of the patient's tolerance to the treatment throughout its duration. Once the treatment is completed, the oral device is removed, concluding the procedure. This innovative approach aims to enhance patient comfort and improve the overall quality of life for individuals undergoing cancer therapies.

1. Indications

The procedure of cryotherapy of the oral cavity is indicated for patients undergoing cancer treatments that may lead to oral mucositis. The following conditions and symptoms warrant the use of this procedure:

Cancer Treatment: Patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer are at risk of developing oral mucositis, which can cause significant pain and discomfort.
Oral Mucositis: The presence of oral mucositis characterized by swelling, rawness, and ulceration in the oral cavity necessitates intervention to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.

2. Procedure

The cryotherapy procedure involves several critical steps to ensure effective treatment and patient safety. Each step is designed to facilitate the cooling of the oral mucosa while monitoring the patient's response to the therapy.

Step 1: Placement of the Oral Device - The procedure begins with the careful fitting of a specialized mouthpiece into the patient's mouth. This mouthpiece is designed to circulate temperature-regulated fluid, ensuring that the oral mucosa is effectively cooled. The device must be positioned correctly to target the areas most susceptible to mucositis.
Step 2: Monitoring of Patient Tolerance - Throughout the procedure, the patient's tolerance to the treatment is closely monitored. Healthcare professionals assess the patient's comfort level and any potential adverse reactions to the cold therapy. This monitoring is crucial to ensure that the patient remains safe and comfortable during the procedure.
Step 3: Circulation of Temperature-Controlled Fluid - The mouthpiece is connected to an external portable unit that circulates cold water at approximately 8 degrees Celsius through the device. This controlled cooling helps to reduce blood flow to the oral mucosa, thereby minimizing the impact of chemotherapy drugs in the area and preventing the onset of mucositis.
Step 4: Removal of the Oral Device - Once the treatment duration is complete, the oral device is carefully removed from the patient's mouth. This step concludes the cryotherapy procedure, and the patient is assessed for any immediate effects or discomfort following the removal.

3. Post-Procedure

After the cryotherapy procedure, patients may experience a reduction in symptoms associated with oral mucositis. It is important for healthcare providers to provide post-procedure care instructions, which may include recommendations for oral hygiene and monitoring for any signs of complications. Patients should be advised to report any unusual discomfort or changes in their oral condition following the treatment. Regular follow-up appointments may be necessary to assess the effectiveness of the cryotherapy and to manage any ongoing symptoms related to their cancer treatment.

Short Descr	CRYOTHERAPY ORAL CAVITY
Medium Descr	CRTX ORAL CAVITY TEMP REGULATED FLU COOLING SYS
Long Descr	Cryotherapy of the oral cavity using temperature regulated fluid cooling system, including placement of an oral device, monitoring of patient tolerance to treatment, and removal of the oral device
Status Code	Carriers Price the Code
Global Days	YYY - Carrier Determines Whether Global Concept Applies
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC)	0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51)	2 - Standard 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)	1 - Statutory 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	STV-Packaged Codes
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	none
MUE	1