Contrast media—sometimes called contrast dye—is commonly used in CT scans, MRIs, and other imaging procedures in Florida hospitals and outpatient facilities. While these agents help doctors diagnose injuries and illnesses more accurately, they also carry risks. One of the most serious complications is contrast media extravasation, which occurs when the contrast agent leaks out of the vein into surrounding tissues.
When extravasation is not recognized or treated promptly, patients can suffer severe injuries, including tissue necrosis, nerve damage, compartment syndrome, and permanent loss of function. In many cases, these injuries are preventable and may be the result of medical negligence.
Below, we’ll explore how contrast extravasation injuries happen, why prompt diagnosis and treatment matter, and what legal options you may have if you or a loved one was harmed in Florida.
How Does Contrast Media Extravasation Occur?
Contrast extravasation happens when the injected contrast escapes the vein and infiltrates surrounding tissues. This can result from:
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Improper IV catheter placement
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High-pressure power injection equipment used without verifying catheter patency
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Fragile veins in pediatric or elderly patients
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Failure to monitor the injection site during administration
Some types of contrast media are hyperosmolar or irritating to tissues, which can worsen the damage when leakage occurs.
Common Symptoms and Injuries
Patients may notice:
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Severe burning, pain, or swelling at the injection site
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Skin discoloration or blistering
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Numbness or tingling
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Decreased range of motion in the affected limb
When large volumes of contrast extravasate, particularly in enclosed spaces like the forearm, compartment syndrome can develop rapidly. This is a surgical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent permanent nerve and muscle damage.
If untreated or mismanaged, extravasation can lead to:
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Tissue necrosis requiring skin grafting
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Permanent nerve injury
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Scarring and disfigurement
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Loss of limb function
Medical Negligence and Liability in Florida
Florida healthcare providers are required to follow established protocols to reduce the risk of extravasation. This includes:
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Properly placing and securing the IV catheter
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Testing catheter function before injecting contrast
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Using the lowest necessary injection pressure
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Monitoring the site closely during the procedure
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Responding immediately to signs of leakage
When facilities fail to uphold these standards, and a patient suffers harm, the injury may give rise to a medical malpractice claim.
What to Do if You Suffered Contrast Extravasation Injury
If you believe your injury was caused by negligence:
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Seek prompt medical attention to evaluate the extent of damage.
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Request and preserve copies of your medical records, including imaging reports and nursing notes documenting the injection.
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Document your symptoms and take photographs of visible injuries.
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Contact an experienced Florida medical malpractice attorney to review your case.
Under Florida law, medical malpractice claims have strict pre-suit requirements and deadlines, so it is important to act quickly to protect your rights.
Get Help from a Florida Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Contrast media extravasation injuries can be life-altering. If you or a loved one suffered severe harm during a CT, MRI, or other imaging study in Florida, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term disability.
An experienced Florida medical malpractice attorney can help you investigate whether negligence occurred and guide you through the legal process.
Contact our office today for a free consultation about your rights and options.
Have you or someone you know been injured as a result of an IV infiltration or extravasation? Contact Florida Hospital and Medical Malpractice Lawyer J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo by dialing his direct number at (786) 272-5841, calling the main office at (305) 461-1095, or Toll Free at 1 (866) 71-CLAIM or email Miami Attorney Gonzalez-Sirgo directly at jp@yourattorneys.com or by text at (305) 929-8935.
