Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of residual deposits in implanted intravenous ports informs maintenance...

This study aimed to evaluate the distribution and composition of intraluminal deposits in implanted intravenous ports removed from oncology patients, with a focus on assessing the effectiveness of current nursing maintenance protocols. Ports removed after completion of cancer treatment were analyzed. Each catheter was segmented into proximal, middle, and distal thirds for regional analysis. Total protein concentrations were measured using the bicinchoninic acid (BCA) assay. Thrombosis-related proteins-fibrin, fibrinogen, thrombin, and P-selectin-were identified by Western blot analysis. A total of 46 patients were included. Three distinct patterns of protein residue distribution were identified between the injection chamber and the catheter. Eleven patients exhibited comparable protein levels in both regions, but only seven demonstrated adequate irrigation. Eighteen patients showed higher protein accumulation in the catheter, while seventeen had greater deposits in the injection chamber. The distal catheter segment consistently exhibited the highest protein concentration, particularly in ports implanted for more than five years. Western blot analysis confirmed the presence of thrombogenic proteins, and the absence of β-actin indicated minimal cellular debris. These findings suggest that mechanical flushing plays a more critical role than pharmacologic flushing in deposit clearance. Proteinaceous deposits persist despite adherence to current protocols, with a notable presence in areas of suboptimal flow, such as the chamber base and distal catheter. These findings suggest a link between flow dynamics and deposit accumulation, indicating that revisions to nursing guidelines-including standardized insertion, increased flushing volumes, and simulation-based competency training-may help support improved port function and potentially lower complication risks.