Contrast injected, scan triggered, but where has contrast gone?

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Radiation Safety

Background:

• Intra-arterial injections during CT examinations are infrequent but significant.
• These events compromise image quality and patient safety.

Observation:

• A case of unintended intra-arterial injection occurred during a cardiac CT scan.
• This resulted in a non-diagnostic study and potential for erroneous patient management.

Findings:

• Intra-arterial injections render CT scans non-diagnostic.
• Patients receive unnecessary radiation doses.
• Repeat imaging is required, causing delays and distress.

Implications:

• Raises awareness among radiologists and clinicians about this rare complication.
• Highlights the importance of careful technique and patient monitoring during contrast-enhanced CT.
• Underscores the potential impact on patient management, especially in emergency settings.