Long-term experience with a totally implanted catheter system in gynecologic oncologic patients

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Vascular Access Devices
• Gynecologic Oncology

Background:

• Gynecologic oncology patients often require intravenous chemotherapy.
• Peripheral venous access can be challenging in this patient population.
• Reliable central venous access is crucial for effective treatment delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To retrospectively review the clinical experience with completely implanted venous access ports (ports).
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of ports in gynecologic oncology patients.
• To assess complication rates and catheter performance associated with port usage.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 115 implanted venous access ports in 100 women between 1984 and 1992.
• Analysis of port duration, number of chemotherapy courses administered, and complication rates.
• Comparison of complication rates based on port site or side of placement.

Main Results:

• Ports remained in situ for an average of 350 days, totaling 110 patient-years.
• 38 ports were in place for over one year, with an average of six chemotherapy courses per port.
• No statistically significant difference in complication rates was found based on port placement site (p=0.5).
• Catheter performance was excellent in 77% of patients.

Conclusions:

• Implantable venous access ports are a safe and reliable method for chronic venous access in gynecologic oncology patients.
• Ports reduce complications and manipulations compared to percutaneous catheters.
• While generally effective, ports are not entirely free from potential complications.