Hand compartment syndrome as a result of intravenous contrast extravasation

Hand compartment syndrome is a rare condition which can result from crush injuries, fractures, burns, intravenous fluid extravasation, etc. Failing to recognize and treat it early leads to significant functional deficits of the hand. Few cases of iatrogenic hand compartment syndrome have been described in the literature so far. We present a case of a hand intravenous (IV) contrast medium extravasation injury in a 72-year-old female patient, during a CT scan. As soon as the swelling of the hand was noticed, elevation of the limb was suggested and ice was applied. Few hours later though the patient developed compartment syndrome of the hand with paresthesias and severe pain with passive movement of the fingers. Left hand emergent fasciotomies were performed leading to a good functional outcome.