Optimising long-term vascular access: role of the Safetouch Huber Infusion Set in implantable port management

There are two classifications of vascular access devices: peripheral (including peripheral intravenous cannula) and central vascular access devices (including non-tunnelled central venous catheters, peripherally inserted central catheters, skin tunnelled central venous catheters and implantable ports). Selecting the most appropriate device can be challenging for healthcare professionals, particularly in the context of long-term treatment, such as chemotherapy, prolonged sequential antibiotic therapy for pulmonary disease or iterative immunoglobulin infusion. When choosing a device, healthcare professionals should consider the indication, treatment regimen and complication rate of each device. For patients requiring sequential treatments lasting 3 months or longer, use of an implantable port is preferred, as it offers lower complication rates, improved patient comfort and greater cost-effectiveness. However, in some cases, skin tunnelled catheters or peripherally inserted central catheters may be indicated. In all situations, strict adherence to guidelines on device selection, insertion, removal and non-coring needle use is essential to minimise complications. This article provides an overview of central venous access devices, with a particular focus on the benefits of implantable ports for long-term care and the role of the Safetouch Huber Infusion Set in facilitating access to implantable ports. Use of the Safetouch Huber Infusion Set is further illustrated in two real-world case studies.