Acute hand ischemia following an accidental intra-arterial administration of dexamethasone and levetiracetam in a patient with superficial ulnar artery anomaly

Abstract

Superficial brachioulnar artery (SUA) is an uncommon variation, having its course superficially to the flexors of the forearm muscles or may arise directly from the axillary or brachial arteries. Due to its superficial course, accidental intra-arterial cannulation may occur. Herein, we present a 55-year-old female case who had an accidental intra-arterial cannulation and received multiple intra-arterial injections of dexamethasone and levetiracetam. The symptoms of the patient mimicked an arterial embolism of the upper extremity and, therefore, the patient underwent an embolectomy procedure. In conclusion, upper extremity arterial anomalies and the possibility of accidental intraarterial cannulation should be kept in mind for acute ischemic cases.