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Intraarterial infusion therapy via a subcutaneous port for limb-threatening ischemia: a pilot study
E P Strecker1, W Ostheim-Dzerowycz, I B Boos
1Department of Radiology, Diakonissen Hospital, Diakonissenstrasse 28, D-76199 Karlsruhe, Germany.
Purpose:
To present the initial results of a new percutaneously implantable catheter port system (PIPS) used for long-term intraarterial infusion therapy in patients with severe ischemic limb disease.
Methods:
Ten patients with deep, extended ischemic ulcerations (all 10) and osteomyelitis (6/10) of the foot received intraarterial infusions of prostaglandine E1 and antibiotics, if indicated, via a new port catheter system with the port placed subcutaneously above the groin after percutaneous introduction and the catheter tip placed into the superficial or deep femoral artery.
Results:
Port implantation and repeated port access were uncomplicated. During the follow-up period (mean 11 months, range 1 week-50 months), port migration, leakage, or infection was not observed. Three catheters thrombosed and were opened by fibrinolysis with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator instilled via the port. Treatment success was achieved in 8 patients: relief from rest pain (8 patients), reduction of ulcer size (4/8), and complete healing (4/8). Limb savage rate was 80%. In 2 patients amputation could not be avoided.
Conclusion:
Selective long-term arterial infusion therapy presents a valuable therapeutic regimen for limb salvage. With the new catheter port system, repeated local intraarterial infusion is safe and simple.