Fact-sheet: Extravasation of intra venous contrast
Updated on 09/17/2021 at 12:16 PM
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Definition
Extravasation of contrast material into the soft tissues after IV injection
Management
Immediately: - Immediate cessation of the injection if the patient complains or a problem is suspected. - Attempted aspiration of the contrast material through the catheter, left in place initially, then, after removal, manual expression of the skin. - Elevation of the affected limb for the following three hours, in cases of potential severity. - Application of ice (for at least 20 minutes; then every hour for 6 hours) without direct contact between the ice and the limb Assessment of potential severity: - Estimation of the injected volume. - Estimation of the extent and location of the extravasation by obtaining limb radiographs. - Search for signs of poor tolerance through clinical, vascular, and neurological examination: taut or blistered skin appearance, marked edema, distal perfusion abnormalities (Compartment syndrome): paresthesias, worsening segmental pain, hypoesthesia, decreased muscle strength, diminished pulses --> specialized surgical consultation.