Reduced Pain Scores during Indocyanine Green Lymphography by using a Different Preparation Formula

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a different indocyanine green lymphography formula can reduce the severe pain encountered during this investigation. Methods: Indocyanine green ICG lymphography frequently induces severe and intolerable pain in patients. It is very important to develop a relatively painless lymphography method. This helps reduce patients’ apprehension during examination. Our center conducted randomized control groups of 60 patients with limb lymphedema. Cases were divided into experimental and control groups. Patients in the experimental group were injected with indocyanine green solution containing 5% glucose, while patients in the control group were injected with indocyanine green solution with sterile water. VAS scores were recorded pre-injection, during, and at 10, 20, and 30 minutes post-injection. We recorded possible side effects, e.g. skin redness, itching, subcutaneous bleeding, bruising, severe allergic reactions, and other complications within 24 and 48 hours after imaging, and analyzed the pain score data. Results: The average pain score of the experimental group was 0-3 points, while the control group was 6-8 points. Disease staging was accurately assessed based on imaging results . No other serious complications occurred. Conclusion: Pain can be significantly reduced by the new modality. This method does not affect lymphography results and imaging quality, and there are no obvious serious complications.