Venous access ports

August 12, 2008

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Jordan et al (2008) in a recently published article describe the typical complications associated with venous access ports, which include venous thrombosis, port infection, extravasation, pinch off syndrome, dislocation, occlusion and catheter leakages. The also include management strategies to reduce these complications.

Jordan. K., Behlendorf, T., Surov, A., Kegel, T., Maher, G. and Wolf, H.H. (2008) Venous access ports: frequency and management of complications in oncology patients. Onkologie. 31(7), p.404-10.

Abstract:

Totally implantable venous access ports have been in use now for over 20 years. They are valuable instruments for long-term intravenous treatment of patients with cancer. Apart from perioperative difficulties, the typical complications associated with venous access ports are venous thrombosis, port infection, extravasation, pinch off syndrome, dislocation, occlusion and catheter leakages. The vast majority of these complications are avoidable, or at least the complication rate can be reduced with health care personnel training and education of patients. This review will give a broad overview on the frequency and possible complications related to port devices. Furthermore, this review suggests strategies for management including proposals to avoid such complications.