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Compartment syndrome in the hand due to extravasation of contrast material

  • Orthopaedic Surgery
  • Published:
Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Extravasation of contrast material is a well-recognized complication of contrast-enhanced imaging studies. Most extravasations result only in minimal swelling or erythema; however, severe skin necrosis, ulceration and compartment syndrome may occur with extravasation of large volumes. This article presents a patient in whom extravasation developed after computed tomography (CT) contrast material was injected intravenously in the dorsum of the hand. Compartment syndrome was diagnosed, and the patient underwent fasciotomy. In follow-up, the patient regained full use of the hand. Although the use of contrast material has significantly improved the diagnostic accuracy of CT, anaphylaxis and contrast material extravasation are important complications. Selection of non-ionic contrast material, careful evaluation of the intravenous administration site and close monitoring of the patient during contrast material injection may help minimize or prevent extravasation injuries.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Gazi University, Besevler, 06500, Ankara, Turkey

    Hakan Selek, Hamza Özer & Sacit Turanlı

  2. Department of Emergency Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey

    Gülbin Aygencel

Authors
  1. Hakan Selek
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  2. Hamza Özer
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  3. Gülbin Aygencel
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  4. Sacit Turanlı
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Hamza Özer.

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Selek, H., Özer, H., Aygencel, G. et al. Compartment syndrome in the hand due to extravasation of contrast material. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg 127, 425–427 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-006-0238-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-006-0238-y

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