Factors Optimizing the Use of Subcutaneous Vascular Access Ports in Weaned Pigs

Young, recently weaned pigs were implanted with subcutaneous vascular access ports in experiments designed to determine the relative bioavailability of lead from contaminated soils. In nine experiments, a total of 72 subcutaneous vascular access ports were implanted. Complications were observed in 38.9% of the implanted pigs. Changes in the protocol were implemented in an effort to reduce the rate of complications. The majority of complications were septic processes, including localized infections around the site of the catheter and injection port, hematogenous pulmonary abscessation, endocarditis, and septic arthritis. Staphylococcus aureus, S. hyicus, b-hemolytic Streptococcus species, and Actinomyces pyogenes were cultured from septic processes in these pigs. Our findings suggest that the health of the skin at the time of surgery, the experience of the surgeon, and the immunologic status of the animal influence the risk of septic complications in pigs implanted with subcutaneous vascular access ports.