Radiology - Radiology IV Contrast Extravasation

Intravenous (IV) contrast (a colourless liquid that shows up on x- ray) has leaked under your skin at the injection site. Most of the time, this is not a serious problem.

You can help decrease your chance of injury by doing the following:

• Raise your arm above the level of the heart, as much as you can, until the swelling goes down
• For the first 24 hours, apply light pressure to the swollen area, with the cool pack provided, for 15 minutes every 1 to 2 hours until the swelling goes down

Swelling or redness of the IV site can last for 1 to 2 days. It is common to feel a dull ache at the site.

The contrast will slowly be absorbed back into your system and then disappear. Your arm should return to normal within 2 to 3 days.

Over the next few days you should:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Apply a cold compress to the injection site 1 to 3 times a day
• Take your usual painkillers for any localised pain

Any swelling, pain or bruising could get worse before it gets better.

When to call your doctor

• Numbness or tingling of the lower arm or hand
• Redness or streaks at the injection site
• Blisters at the site
• Increased pain that does not get better over time
• Coolness of the lower arm or hand
• Any increase in the size of your arm
• Any hard swelling that is still present after 2 days