Intravenous extravasation occurs when there is an accidental leak of intravenous cytotoxic fluid (chemotherapy drug) from the vein to surrounding tissue.
If chemotherapy is given in a peripheral vein, a large vein should be used, which is preferably in the underarm. Before the infusion begins, the vein should be checked for leaks by injecting NaCl 9 mg/ml or glucose 50 mg/ml. Backflow should also be checked. The patient must be informed that pain or burning in the area is not normal and they must inform the doctor.
Cytotoxic chemotherapy drugs should always be given through a central vein catheter to reduce the risk of intravenous extravasation.
Risk factors for intravenous extravasation:
- Small veins (infants and children)
- Brittle veins (elderly patients)
- Reduced physical health (cancer patients)
- Sclerosizing veins
- Rolling veins
- Poor circulation (if the needle is placed in an arm with edema)
- Obstructed vena cava (raised venous pressure may cause leakage)
- Conditions such as diabetes and radiation damage
- Obesity
Chemotherapeutic drugs are separated into three groups according to the degree of toxicity:
- Non-cytotoxic/irritating
- Tissue irritant
- Cytotoxic
Cytotoxic drugs can cause blisters or ulcerations leading to skin necrosis if extravasation occurs. If intravenous extravasation is left untreated, it can lead to permanent tissue damage, necrosis, scar formation around ligaments, nerves and joints, infections, abscesses, contractures, and in the worst case, amputation.
Indication
- Intravenous extravasation of cytotoxic drugs.
Goal
- Limit damage of tissue from intravenous extravasation.