Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Xtrac Laser For Psoriasis Side Effects

Laser Treatment Of Psoriasis Or Parapsoriasis

XTRAC Excimer Laser Phototherapy

Reimbursement Policy:Laser Treatment of Psoriasis or Parapsoriasis

Effective Date:November 16, 2020

Purpose:To provide guidelines for the processing of 96920-96922 when billed without a diagnosis of psoriasis or parapsoriasis.

Scope:All products are included, except

  • Products where Horizon BCBSNJ is secondary to Medicare .
  • COB
  • SHBP non MA

All Insured Individual, Commercial medical plans, Medicare Advantage Plans, and SHBP are included.

Other ASO accounts will be included as an Opt-In option for additional claims editing on an account by account basis

Policy:According to the AMA CPT Manual and CMS policy, laser treatment of psoriasis should only be reported with a diagnosis of psoriasis or parapsoriasis . Therefore, the laser treatment shall not be considered for reimbursement when one of these diagnoses is not present on the claim.

The procedure codes and nomenclature used in this Policy are subject to revision and/or change by the American Medical Association. In the event of such changes, the Policy will continue to be in force, albeit applied to the new or amended coding so issued until such time as the Policy is reviewed and updated to reflect the new or amended coding.

Procedure:Horizon BCBSNJ shall deny 96920-96922 when billed without a diagnosis of psoriasis or parapsoriasis as provided above.

No additional reimbursement shall be made if the provider is capitated or the reimbursement structure for that provider is a global fee.

History:

What Is Xtrac Therapy

It is a laser treatment that we use for psoriasis. It goes over the plaque that uses a highly concentrated form of Ultraviolet B light. UVB light is the same light waves that are emitted from the sun, so its something that we as humans commonly experience in our lives, every single day. It is the reason we get a sunburn, the reason we get a suntan, and this laser specifically uses this form of light.

What Are The Risks

Doctors generally consider excimer laser therapy to be safe. Most people tolerate it well. But if you get too much UV light, it may cause redness the way a sunburn would. You might get blisters and changes in the color of your skin, too.

If you have a lot of laser therapy over time, thereâs a chance this could come with an increased risk of skin cancer. Because it treats only the areas that need it, the risk of skin cancer from excimer laser therapy is lower than the risk from light box therapy or sun exposure.

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The Leading Psoriasis Laser Treatment

The providers at Dermatology & Skin Cancer Surgery Center know how difficult Psoriasis can be and how it can take a toll on everyday life. Our patients frequently suffer from itching, burning, scaling, and crusting, but with cutting-edge technology, they dont have to anymore. Were proud to offer the XTRAC laser system as the leading Psoriasis laser treatment cleared by the FDA and endorsed by the National Psoriasis Foundation. See how this laser is changing lives one treatment at a time.

What is the XTRAC Laser?

As a type of excimer laser, the XTRAC Laser helps treat the appearance of Psoriasis, Vitiligo, and Atopic Dermatitis. By using a highly concentrated form of ultraviolet light over a series of treatments, this laser directly targets the most visible symptoms of Psoriasis to clear unsightly plaques. This type of treatment involves few risks, and is even safe for children to use.

What are the benefits?

The XTRAC Laser helps improve symptoms and reduces flare-ups with minimal side effects. You can also couple it with other treatments such as topical medication to improve the appearance of the skin quicker. It is painless and requires no recovery time following treatment because it is a highly targeted laser that prevents damage to other parts of the skin. As a leading Psoriasis laser treatment, over 5 million XTRAC treatments have been performed by leading dermatologists around the world and with excellent patient results.

Where can I be treated?

How Much Does Xtrac Laser Cost

Love Your Skin: What benefits can expect from Xtrac Laser ...

The good news is that most medical companies cover Xtrac laser therapy if it is considered necessary. You may need to apply for prior approval from your insurance company before you have the treatment done. Sometimes The National Psoriasis Foundation can help with appealing claims if youve been denied coverage. If you do have to end up paying out of pocket, you may find that this laser treatment is more expensive than other UVB treatments. But the shorter treatment time and longer results can offset the price.

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Xtrac Scalp Psoriasis Treatment

Scalp Psoriasis Can be Cleared. 95% XTRAC CLEAR.

Because of the shielding effect of hair, traditional UVB lamp therapy is not very effective against scalp psoriasis. However, studies have reported success in treating it with the 308 nm excimer laser which generates a targeted beam of UVB light.

XTRAC allows for simple manual separation of the hair, provides good visualization of psoriasis, and permits rapid treatment so that a whole scalp can often be treated in less than 15 minutes.

Treatment For Psoriasis Eczema And Vitiligo

Skin disorders can cause severe physical changes to the dermis, which is the thick layer of living tissue that sits below the epidermis, forming the skin. These patches can be large and may be challenging to live with. Skin diseases like psoriasis and vitiligo can make it uncomfortable to participate in certain activities. Thankfully, psoriasis and vitiligo are both treatable with Xtrac laser therapy.

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Psoralen Plus Ultraviolet A

For this treatment, youâll first be given a tablet containing compounds called psoralens, or psoralen may be applied directly to the skin. This makes your skin more sensitive to light.

Your skin is then exposed to a wavelength of light called ultraviolet A . This light penetrates your skin more deeply than ultraviolet B light.

This treatment may be used if you have severe psoriasis that has not responded to other treatment.

Side effects include nausea, headaches, burning and itchiness. You may need to wear special glasses for 24 hours after taking the tablet to prevent the development of cataracts.

Long-term use of this treatment is not encouraged, as it can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

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Do You Have Any Other Laser Treatments

XTRAC Psoriasis Laser Therapy from Chicago Dermatologist Pinski Dermatology

The pulsed dye laser is another type of laser treatment that can be used to treat psoriasis. Psoriasis lesion treatment can be different between XTRAC and PDL lasers.

The PDL laser targets tiny blood vessels in the psoriasis lesions, while the XTRAC laser targets cells T.

A review of studies shows that PDL has a response rate between 57 percent and 82 percent for lesions. The remission rates can last up to 15 months.

PDL might be more effective for some people than other treatments, and may have fewer side effects.

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Talk With Others Who Understand

MyPsoriasisTeam is the social network for people with psoriasis and their loved ones. On MyPsoriasisTeam, more than 90,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with psoriasis.

Have you used XTRAC laser treatments, or are you thinking about trying laser therapy for your psoriasis? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on MyPsoriasisTeam.

What Is Xtrac Laser Treatment And How Does It Work

Excimer laser therapy is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treating plaque psoriasis. Dermatologists use this small, handheld device in their office to treat people with psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo.

Excimer lasers such as the XTRAC laser work by emitting a high-intensity beam of ultraviolet B light. These lasers use a specific UVB light wavelength, 308 nanometers, and target only the psoriatic skin, not the healthy skin. The laser works by killing cells that contribute to the buildup of plaques.

The American Academy of Dermatology generally recommends excimer laser treatment two to three times per week. Generally, an average of 10 treatments can help clear psoriasis lesions. Your doctor may recommend a different dosage depending on your plaque severity and location.

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Xtrac Laser For Psoriasis

The XTRAC system uses a carefully focused beam of laser light. XTRAC is designed to quickly and effectively clear unsightly psoriatic skin plaques. The light is concentrated on the affected skin relatively sparing the normal appearing unaffected skin. The XTRAC FDA-cleared excimer laser has been proven effective for all levels of psoriasis and is excellent for hard to treat areas such as the scalp, knees or elbows. XTRAC therapy is typically covered by all major insurance companies though some costs may apply. Most patient improve over a course of 10-20 treatments given over a couple months. Side effects can resemble a sunburn and some scabbing or blistering is possible. XTRAC has also been used to treat vitiligo. Make appointment to see your dermatologist for details.

How Xtrac Laser Treatment Has Helped Others

XTRAC Laser Therapy for Psoriasis: Does It Work?

Finding the right psoriasis treatment can be challenging. Some members of MyPsoriasisTeam have shared how laser therapy has helped them achieve healthy skin. âI had a large spot on my right leg that had a really thick plaque. The laser has gotten rid of the plaque, and now the affected area has started to disappear. My skin color is coming back,â wrote one member.

Another member wrote, âI am receiving XTRAC treatment, and it is helping so much.â A third member noted, âXTRAC Laser treatments for my psoriasis are going great.â

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Are Other Laser Treatments Available

Another type of laser treatment, the pulsed dye laser , is also available to treat psoriasis lesions. The PDL and XTRAC lasers have different effects on psoriasis lesions.

The PDL targets the tiny blood vessels in the psoriasis lesion, whereas the XTRAC laser targets T cells.

One review of studies says that response rates for PDL are between 57 and 82 percent when used on lesions. Remission rates were found to last as long as 15 months.

For some people, PDL may be effective with fewer treatments and with fewer side effects.

Scalp Psoriasis Can Be Cleared 95% Xtrac Clear

Because of the shielding effect of hair, traditional UVB lamp therapy is not very effective against scalp psoriasis. However, studies have reported success in treating it with the 308 nm excimer laser which generates a targeted beam of UVB light.

XTRAC allows for simple manual separation of the hair, provides good visualization of the psoriasis and permits rapid treatment so that a whole scalp can often be treated in less than 15 minutes.

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How Long Does Treatment Last

Treatment with the XTRAC laser may help prevent a skin breakout for up to six months. The skincare experts at Bay Ridge Dermatology provide guidelines on what to expect with treatment and what to do when you experience a breakout, including recommendations for additional treatments with the XTRAC laser.

For advanced laser treatment for your psoriasis, vitiligo, or eczema, call the office or request an appointment using the request appointment button.

How To Heal Nail Psoriasis

PhotoMedex XTRAC Laser Treatment for Psoriasis

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What You Should Know Before Starting Laser Treatment

Laser treatment for psoriasis can produce dramatic results in some people — but this therapy isn’t for everyone. To make sure you’re a good candidate, have a complete health history and exam done before starting treatment.

Avoid laser treatments if you have:

  • Lupus or scleroderma
  • Xeroderma pigmentosum
  • Risks for, or a history of, skin cancer
  • A condition that requires you to take medications that make you sensitive to the sunÃ

Vitiligo Is Not Forever Xtrac For Even Skin

XTRAC treatments can minimize and, in many cases, even eliminate Vitligo depigmented patches. The XTRAC excimer laser delivers a targeted beam of UVB light and only the areas of skin affected by Vitiligo receive the laser energy

Though the laser spot size measures only 18mm x 18mm, due to rapid exposure times, relatively large, discrete areas can be treated in just five to 10 minutes, which is much quicker than the duration of conventional phototherapy light sessions. And most importantly, XTRAC treatments achieve complete response rates faster in a higher proportion of patients.

Disclaimer*Results may vary, talk to your doctor about the right treatment protocol for you.

Side Effects/Risks: XTRAC has none of the drawbacks often associated with other psoriasis treatments-such as premature aging of healthy skin, skin thinning, resistance to medication, or potential negative systemic side effects. Some patients, however, experience a reaction similar to sunburn or blistering at the site of the treated area and in some cases, an increase in pigmentation may occur.

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What To Expect During Xtrac Treatment

XTRAC is performed with a handheld device that delivers the UVB rays to the affected areas. The quick procedure is relatively painless, with some reporting a slight burning sensation. The most common side effect is redness or blistering in the treated area, but these too are typically mild. No downtime is needed after the procedure.

How Xtrac Laser Therapy Works

Clearing Psoriasis: Lasers or Drugs?

Xtrac uses carefully-focused laser light beams to target patches of skin that are affected by psoriasis or vitiligo. The first laser of its kind to be approved for treatment for psoriasis, the Xtrac laser can work wonders on affected skin. If medications, creams, and other lifestyle and dietary changes havent worked for you, Xtrac laser therapy may be the solution. You can even receive Xtrac laser therapy treatment while pregnant, nursing, or on any of a variety of prescription medications.

Because there are few risks to Xtrac laser therapy, nearly anyone can seek this type of laser treatment. In fact, Xtrac is even safe for children to use, when approved by a board-certified dermatologist. Plus, Xtrac is covered by most insurance plans including Medicare.

Xtrac laser therapy has also been approved to treat some types of eczema, too. Most health insurance and Medicare plans cover the treatment costs of Xtrac laser therapy.

If you suffer from psoriasis or vitiligo and are ready to learn more about the effectiveness of Xtrac laser therapy, we want to meet with you. Use the buttons below to find a clinician or a location that offers Xtrac laser therapy.

For more information, call us at: 759-4033

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How Effective Is The Xtrac Laser For Psoriasis

Excimer laser therapy is very effective at treating psoriasis. A study of 120 people with psoriasis found that about 85 percent achieved at least a 90-percent improvement after seven to 13 laser treatments. Nearly 57 percent of people with psoriasis of the palms and soles saw complete clearance with laser therapy.

Excimer lasers like the XTRAC are also commonly used along with topical steroids. Combination therapy with steroids is often more effective than phototherapy or steroids alone.

Conditions Treated With Xtrac

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition with no cure, but it is possible to treat the symptoms. Xtrac has shown to be an effective tool in minimizing and reducing psoriasis flareups. This inflammatory skin condition is not dangerous, but can cause embarrassing red patches on the skin, often with silvery tips.

Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition also has no cure and often begins in childhood. It can be mistaken for a rash and avoiding triggers has traditionally been the best approach for preventing flareups. However, Xtrac can also be used in some eczema cases to minimize symptoms and shorten their lifespan.

Vitiligo

A rare skin condition, vitiligo happens when the cells that create pigment in the skin are mistakenly attacked by the immune system. There is no cure for vitiligo, which appears as white patches of lost melanin. However, the effects of vitiligo may be softened with Xtrac treatments.

Xtrac might be recommended as a solitary treatment or in conjunction with other treatments. This laser therapy is often recommended after topical and oral treatments have failed. Xtrac has shown to work well in situations where stubborn lesions persist, and when all other forms of less invasive therapies have been exhausted.

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