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Protocol for the implantation of a venous access device (Port-A-Cath System). The complications and solutions found in 560 cases

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Abstract

Introduction

The cannulation of suitable peripheral veins may be a very painful experience. Implantable venous access systems have to some degree relieved this problem and help to provide an improvement in terms of quality of life.

Material and methods

We have evaluated 560 patients during a follow up period of two years. A low overall complication percentage of 7.32% was seen when using the venous access device.

Results

Complications and treatments were: pneumothorax; portal rotation or infection; catheter infection; embolism and migration; extravasation; partial or total obstruction of the device; rupture of the catheter or the membrane.

Conclusions

There is no other system that allows repeated venous access on such a long term basis. Placing the devices completely under the skin allows the patient to conduct a normal life style, and its maintenance does not need any special care, with the exception of the monthly heparinised serum infusion. The preferred option is to insert the catheter through the cephalic vein in the delto pectoral groove.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Servicio de Cirugía Plástica, Reparadora y Estética. Unidad de Quemados, Hospital POVISA, C/Salamanca, 5. 36211 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain

    Luis Yeste Sánchez

  2. Servicio de Cirugía Torácica, Hospital de La Ribera. Alzira, Valencia, Spain

    José M. Galbis Caravajal

  3. Servicio de Cirugía General y Digestiva, Instituto Valenciano de Oncología (IVO), Valencia, Spain

    Carlos A. Fuster Diana & Enrique Moledo Eiras

Authors
  1. Luis Yeste Sánchez
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  2. José M. Galbis Caravajal
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  3. Carlos A. Fuster Diana
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  4. Enrique Moledo Eiras
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Correspondence to Luis Yeste Sánchez.

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Sánchez, L.Y., Galbis Caravajal, J.M., Fuster Diana, C.A. et al. Protocol for the implantation of a venous access device (Port-A-Cath System). The complications and solutions found in 560 cases. Clin Transl Oncol 8, 735–741 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12094-006-0120-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12094-006-0120-y

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