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Intrapulmonal dislocation of a totally implantable venous access device
Thilo Hackert1, Christin Tjaden, Angelika Kraft
1Dept, of Surgery, University of Heidelberg, Germany. thilo_hackert@med.uni-heidelberg.de.
World Journal of Surgical Oncology
|April 13, 2005
Summary
A rare intrapulmonal catheter dislocation occurred in a patient with a totally implantable venous access device during chemotherapy. Prompt diagnosis and thoracoscopic removal prevented further complications, highlighting the need for vigilant monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Oncology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Totally implantable venous access devices are crucial for chemotherapy and parenteral nutrition.
- Common complications include infections, dislocations, and infusion issues.
- Catheter dislocation is a rare but serious device-associated risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of intrapulmonal catheter dislocation.
- To emphasize the diagnostic and management challenges of this complication.
- To highlight the importance of vigilant patient monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 49-year-old patient with metastatic breast cancer.
- Utilized a totally implantable venous access system for chemotherapy infusion.
- Diagnosis confirmed after symptoms of coughing and dyspnea during infusion.
- Intrapulmonal catheter segment removed via thoracoscopic surgery.
Main Results:
- Successful removal of the intrapulmonal catheter segment.
- No further complications reported post-procedure.
- Demonstrated a rare but significant complication of venous access devices.
Conclusions:
- Intrapulmonal catheter dislocation is an infrequent complication of totally implantable venous access devices.
- Prophylactic measures cannot entirely prevent this complication.
- Routine system checks and thorough evaluation of new symptoms are essential for early detection and management.