An audit of contrast extravasation in patients undergoing contrast enhanced CTs at radiology department in a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan

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Abstract

Objective: To audit the radiology department of a health facility, focusing on contrast extravasations management pre- and post-implementation of a standard protocol.

Methods: The audit was conducted at the Radiology Department of Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan and comprised reported computed tomography contrast extravasation incidents from January 2017 to December 2019 in the retrospective phase before the implementation of a standard protocol. Post-implementation, re-audit was done prospectively to assess compliance from January 2020 to May 2021. Overall score of >80% was chosen arbitrarily as a qualifying standard for adequate documentation.

Results: Of the 49 total cases, 26(53%) related to the first phase and 23(47%) to the second. In the first phase, 2(20%) of the 10 parameters cleared the cut-off mark; 'study performed' 25(96%) and 'limb assessment by technician' 26(100%). In the second phase, 2(20%) parameters failed to clear the cut-off mark; site of cannula/extravasation' 18(78.3%) and 'volume of contrast' 15(65%).

Conclusion: Lack of early identification and appropriate management, especially in cases of large-volume extravasation, may result in significant morbidity.

Key Words: Contrast extravasation, Contrast-enhanced CT, IV contrast media.