Edema Flashcards
Abnormal collection of fluid in tissues
Caused by 10%+ increase in moisture in tissues
Types of edema:
Solid/cellular -> inside cells; Pitting/intercellular -> fluid collects in tissue spaces; Ascites -> fluid in cavities
Problem: Tissues swollen & distorted
Skin may wrinkle after swelling is reduced
Problem: Leakage
Can occur through skin or from incision/puncture sites; may wet clothing or casket lining
Problem: Accelerates decomposition
Microbial growth is increased
Blisters & skin-slip
Need to be drained/dried
Problem: Excess moisture may dilute arterial solution after injection
Use very strong solutions (min 5%, up to 25%-30% for severe cases)
Technique: Use waterless solutions
Compensates for excess moisture
Treatment: Use hypertonic (very strong) solutions
Draws moisture from tissues which can then be drained; required to arrest decomp & ensure preservation
Treatment: Use restricted cervical and/or sectional embalming
Can treat localized areas with stronger solutions
Treatment: Use continuous drainage from right IJV
Allows removal of more moisture from body
Technique: Use interrupted injection -> inject solution at intervals w/delays in between
Allows moisture to be drawn out of tissues
Treatment: Use co-injection chemicals
Edema corrective fluids; epsom salts; humectants (in large volumes can dehydrate)
Treatment: Channel & wick tissues, use gravitation
Allows moisture to drain out
Treatment: Use massage and surface pressure
Physically moves liquid out of tissues
