Extravasation is a serious complication of chemotherapy that can cause tissue damage and severe pain. Vesicant antineoplastic chemotherapy agents are a particular concern, as they can cause significant damage to the surrounding tissue if they leak out of the vein during administration.
Extravasation is the accidental leakage of chemotherapy drugs into the surrounding tissue instead of the intended vein. This can occur when the needle or catheter used to administer the drugs becomes dislodged or punctures the vein.
When extravasation occurs, the chemotherapy drugs can cause damage to the surrounding tissue, leading to pain, swelling, and even tissue death in severe cases. Vesicant chemotherapy drugs are particularly dangerous because they can cause extensive tissue damage even in small amounts.
The signs and symptoms of extravasation can vary depending on the type and amount of chemotherapy drug that has leaked into the surrounding tissue. Common signs and symptoms include:
If you experience any of these symptoms during chemotherapy treatment, it is important to notify your healthcare provider immediately. Prompt recognition and treatment of extravasation can help minimize tissue damage and prevent long-term complications.
If extravasation is suspected, your healthcare provider will assess the area and determine the best course of treatment. Treatment may involve:
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue or repair the affected area.
Preventing extravasation is an important part of chemotherapy administration. Healthcare providers should use proper techniques and devices to minimize the risk of extravasation, including: