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Abstract
Purpose:
Incidence of radiographic contrast media extravasation has increased owing to the escalating availability of contrast enhanced imaging. Potential complications of extravasation include localized swelling, itching sensation, hypesthesia, erythema, limitation of finger movement, compartment syndrome, skin sloughing, and necrosis. We describe clinical characteristics and treatment of computed tomography contrast media extravasation.
Methods:
A retrospective chart review was performed on 26 consulted patients experiencing contrast extravasation, between January 2005 and December 2011. Age, signs, symptoms, types of contrast administered, volume of extravasation, treatment and patient outcomes were documented and evaluated, retrospectively.
Results:
Extravasation of less than 100 mL occurred in 85%. Immediate surgical therapy was necessary in 23% of cases. There were no postoperative complications and it rendered excellent cosmetic outcomes. In 77% of cases, conservative management was recommended, such as elevation and immobilization of extremity, application of ice pack, and careful monitoring.
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Fig. 1.
Case 1. (A) A 59-year-old female showing erythema, swelling, paresthesia, blistering and severe pain. (B, C) Intraoperative view. Fasciotomy and concomitant transverse carpal ligament release were performed. (D) Postoperative 6 months follow-up revealed excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes.
Fig. 2.
Case 2. (A) A 57-year-old female showing swelling and paresthesia. (B) Intraoperative view. An incision was made on the dorsum of the hand and saline washout was performed. (C) Postoperative 6 months follow-up revealed excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes.
Table 1.
Summary of 26 patients
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