• Reference Number: HEY1096/2025
• Departments: Radiology
• Last Updated: 30 April 2025

Introduction

This leaflet has been produced to give you general information. Most of your questions should be answered by this leaflet. It is not intended to replace the discussion between you and the healthcare team but may act as a starting point for discussion. If after reading it you have any concerns or require further explanation, please discuss this with a member of the healthcare team.

Many procedures within the department of Radiology involve an injection of a contrast media (dye) into a vein. The reasons for the injection will be explained at the time of the procedure. Sometimes, during these injections, an extravasation (a leak) may occur. This leaflet aims to explain what this is and how it should be looked after.

What is an Extravasation?

An extravasation occurs when the contrast media (dye) accidently leaked out of a vein into the surrounding tissue. If this occurs you may feel pain, swelling or tightening in the injection area. We understand that this maybe worrying but all our staff are well trained to deal with this situation.

Before you leave the Department.

• A staff member will explain what has happened.
• You will be observed for a short time to check for any issues.
• You may have a cold compress or pressure bandage applied.

After leaving the hospital (and for the next few days)

For the next, few days please note the following instructions:

• Keep your arm elevated as much as you can.
• Drink plenty of fluids (non-alcoholic)
• Take paracetamol for any localised pain
• Apply a cold compress up to three times a day on the affected area.

Contact the hospital if you experience any of the following symptoms

• Blistering over the injection site
• Redness or skin colour changes.
• A difference in skin temperature at the site. (compared with the temperature of your skin elsewhere)
• Numbness or tingling in your fingers
• Hardness at the injection site that doesn’t go away after 3 days.

After 2 days you will be contacted by a member of the CT Team:

A member of the CT team will contact you two days after your scan to check on your recovery. If you have any concerns before then, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Contact numbers for follow up advice.

Contact numbers for follow up treatment issues

Should you require further advice on the issues contained in this leaflet or with ongoing symptoms, please contact:

During hours of 9.00am to 5.00pm Telephone Tel: 01482 875875

Ask for the CT department where you have had your scan.

During hours of 5.00pm to 9.00am, at weekends and Bank Holidays:

Telephone: Tel: 01482 482170. This is the Emergency CT department.

One of the Radiology doctors will be able to offer you advice.

Most of your questions should have been answered by this leaflet but remember that this is only a starting point for discussion with the healthcare team.