Angiographic CT studies need attention to cannula size and site (modifiable factors) to avoid contrast extravasations.

Points to remember:

If the contrast injection leaks out from the vein to the tissues under your skin, this is called extravasation. It can cause a stinging feeling, but this usually wears off after about 30 minutes. You might also have some swelling in your arm or hand. In most cases, this is a minor injury and does not need any treatment.

If there is a leak, the health professional doing your scan (a radiographer) massages your arm and raises it above your head. They might also put a cold compress (a thick, soft piece of cloth) on the area.If possible, the radiographer will continue with the scan. To do this, you might need another contrast injection. The radiographer will talk to you about this. 

If you have swelling in your hand or arm when you have left hospital after your scan, there are things you can do to help. 

• Raise your arm as much as you can. At night, keep your arm raised on 2 pillows. Keep doing this until the swelling has gone down.
• Use an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables on the swelling. Wrap the ice pack or frozen vegetables in a clean tea towel first. Do not put ice directly on your skin or leave the ice pack on for more than 15 minutes at a time.
• You can massage the area where the contrast has gone into the tissue.
• If the area is painful, take your usual painkillers. Always follow the instructions on the packet.