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Updated: Jul 30, 2026

Utilizing Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Devices in Acute Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock
Published on: June 12, 2021
Vascular access by physician assistants: evaluation of an implantable peripheral port system in cancer patients
E B Rubenstein1, A Fender, K V Rolston
1Department of Medical Specialties, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030, USA.
Purpose:
To determine the ability of a physician assistant (PA) to insert, in an ambulatory setting, a peripheral subcutaneous implanted vascular-access device (VAD) and to evaluate the ability to transfer this training to a second PA. We also evaluated the performance and complications associated with this new device.
Patients And Methods:
The Peripheral Access System (PAS) Port catheter system (Sims-Deltec Inc, St Paul, MN) was inserted in patients who required long-term (> 3 months) vascular access for infusion therapy.
Results:
The first PA (PA-1) successfully inserted 57 of 62 devices (92%) after gaining experience with the technique in 10 patients (success rate, five of 10 [50%]; P = .003). The second PA (PA-2) was successful in eight of 10 initial attempts (80%) and 25 of 30 overall (83%). Complications were few and limited to phlebitis, thrombosis, and a low infection rate (0.2 per 1,000 catheter days).
Conclusion:
PAs can be taught to insert a peripheral subcutaneous implanted VAD. This technique is transferable from one PA to another, and the device studied is appropriate for outpatient VAD programs.
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