[Implantable catheter systems]

Central venous access devices represent a definitive improvement in childhood cancer therapy. The silicone elastomer catheters offer a both save and easy access, low related morbidity and acceptance by patient. Tunnelled right atrial catheter (Broviac, Hickman-Crawford or Quinton) for long-term use are firstline choice for venous access. Although ports reduce the number of complications and manipulations associated with percutaneous catheters, they are not devoid of problems. Related complications are catheter infection and occlusion or damage. The different techniques of venous vascular access and management of complications are reported.