Skin necrosis complicating intraosseous infusion

Abstract

Bone marrow infusion is currently recommended as a useful technique for rapidly obtaining vascular access in critically ill children. Minor complications occur frequently, but serious complications of this technique are uncommon. We describe two patients with local skin necrosis complicating intraosseous infusion. To minimize the complications of this technique, we recommend placement verification before fluid infusion, careful monitoring for infiltration, and prompt removal after venous access is obtained.