Extravasation of contrast media for imaging studies is relatively common. Kim et al reported an algorithm for management of these patients. The authors are from Ajou University in South Korea.
The occurrence of extravasation injury is higher in adults from 40 to 80 years of age.
Initial patient evaluation: after confirmation of possible extravasation injury, then contact plastic surgery or send the patient to the Emergency Department.
Parameters:
(1) estimated volume of the extravasate in mL
(2) clinical scenario
Estimated Volume
Clinical Scenario
Management
< 50 mL
absence of a sense of pressure
conservative
>= 50 mL
absence of compartment syndrome
drainage with multiple slit incision
NA
feeling of severe pressure without compartment syndrome
drainage with multiple slit incisions
NA
suspected compartment syndrome
immediate fasciotomy
where:
• Multiple slit incisions allow for the media to be squeezed out before it can do more tissue damage.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
