Inadvertent intraradial arterial injection of cocaine.

Abstract

Injection of a chemical irritant into the radial artery at the wrist causes acute discoloration of the skin, edema, and pain in the hand. Subsequent damage due to vasospasm, endarteritis, particulate embolization, and vascular thrombosis may result in ischemic contractures, amputations, and other functional hand deficits. Injection of a street cocaine preparation into the radial artery of a 22-year-old man produced a constellation of signs and symptoms similar to that described for other irritants. Current thoughts with regard to the pathophysiology and treatment of these injuries are reviewed.

• Authors: M E Klabacha, S H Miller, J M Pav, R J Demuth
• Journal: Annals of plastic surgery (Ann Plast Surg) Vol. 13 Issue 1 Pg. 60-2 (Jul 1984) ISSN: 0148-7043 [Print] United States
• PMID: 6742732 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Cocaine

Topics

• Adult
• Arteries (injuries)
• Cocaine (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Edema (chemically induced)
• Hand Dermatoses (chemically induced, therapy)
• Humans
• Injections, Intra-Arterial
• Male
• Vascular Diseases (chemically induced)
• Wrist (blood supply)