Due to COVID-19 lockdowns in Shanghai, China, the manufacturing of intravenous (IV) contrast fluid has significantly slowed down and there are global shortages.
90% of the contrast used in Australia is manufactured in Shanghai. Contrast is a critical product used in CT Scans, Coronary Angiography, Interventional Radiology as well as many surgical, urological and other interventional procedures.
The Department of Health is working to source an alternate product. Unfortunately, due to the demand, supply in Australia could be impacted well into August 2022 unless an alternate product can be sourced.
Monash Health is working to develop and implement a conservation plan while also ensuring minimum wastage.
The key elements of the conservation plan are:
- Triage process for assessing patients requiring IV contrast with prioritisation to occur based on clinical urgency.
- All non-urgent imaging employing IV contrast will cease
- Consideration of all appropriate alternative imaging methods prior to the usage of IV contrast.
- Collaboration between Radiology, ED, surgical and medical units to ensure the right patient receives the most appropriate resources at the right time.
- Working with Pharmacy to minimise wastage
- Consultant approval is now required for all emergency and inpatient contrast studies
Approved by Anjali Dhulia