Fluid Extravasation in Shoulder Arthroscopic Surgery: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Shoulder arthroscopic surgery is increasingly common.
• Fluid extravasation is a rare but potentially fatal complication.
• No prior systematic reviews exist on this topic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review fluid extravasation in shoulder arthroscopy.
• Assess clinical presentation, risk factors, management, and outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of 26 studies (case reports, series, comparative studies).
• Searched PubMed, Ovid (MEDLINE), Embase databases.
• PRISMA and MINORS checklists used for reporting and quality assessment.

Main Results:

• 205 patients included; common signs were chest and neck swelling.
• 32 patients managed with observation; others required intubation, diuretics, steroids, or drainage.
• Most symptoms resolved within 48 hours; 1 death reported.

Conclusions:

• Fluid extravasation is a serious complication but often managed nonoperatively.
• Minimizing surgical time and fluid volume can prevent extravasation.
• Careful monitoring aids prompt diagnosis and optimizes outcomes.