Ultrasonographic Classification of Subcutaneous Edema Caused by Infusion via Peripheral Intravenous Catheter

Background Our aim in this study was to determine the ability of ultrasonography (US) to assess and classify the degree of subcutaneous edema caused by infusion via peripheral intravenous catheter, compared to assessment by the Infusion Nurses Society infiltration scale. Methods This prospective study included 64 adult patients who underwent infusion via peripheral intravenous catheter. All patients underwent US imaging of the subcutaneous tissue just after the insertion of indwelling catheters and just before catheter removal. The grade of swelling was then assessed using the infiltration scale. Subcutaneous edema and edema thickness were analyzed on transverse US images, and the edema was classified as normal, mild, or severe. The relationship between US-determined subcutaneous edema and that determined by using the infiltration scale was evaluated. Results Among the 64 patients, US images of the subcutaneous edema were classified into three groups: normal in 15 patients, mild subcutaneous edema in 41 patients, and severe subcutaneous edema in eight patients. Thus, US classification of subcutaneous edema could provide more detailed information than the infiltration scale. Conclusion The results of the present study suggest that US imaging of subcutaneous tissue could help classify the degree of subcutaneous edema.