A prospective randomized trial comparing the infectious and noninfectious complications of an externalized catheter versus a subcutaneously implanted device in cancer patients

How often should a port-A-cath be flushed?

While it is important during treatment to flush the port-A-cath (PAC) with heparin regularly, catheter maintenance needs to be evaluated in those patients who, after completion of therapy, retained their ports for extended periods of time. The manufacturer has recommended monthly accession to maintain catheter patency and function. Our objective is to demonstrate that a longer interval between maintenance accessions of PACs still may be medically safe, convenient, and more efficient. We performed a retrospective review of all patients who had undergone PAC insertion from 1988 to 1993 at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and from 1997 to 2002 at the New York Hospital Medical Center of Queens. An adequate maintenance time is defined as a period of at least 6 months without chemotherapy or total parenteral nutrition. Data collected included date and location of PAC insertion, date of PAC accessions, PAC complications, and results of attempts at flushing the catheters with no venous blood return. All data were entered into an Excel spreadsheet and analyzed. The difference in interval accessions in patients without any complication to patients with complication was calculated using the Mann-Whitney "U" test. A total of 73 patients were included in the study. Compliance with visits for PAC maintenance varied considerably with the individual median accession times varying between 28 and 262 days with an overall median of 42 days. The individual means ranged from 29.5 to 244 days with an overall mean of 53.6 days. Seven patients in the group had episodes where the provider was unable to draw blood from the port during routine accession. The average intervals between accessions for each of these patients ranged from 38 to 244 days. The average intervals of accession among those patients who had no blood return during PAC accession was 79 days, versus 63 days for those without any difficulty. The difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Monthly maintenance of PAC is excessive, inconvenient for the patients, and expensive. Extending the interval of PAC maintenance proves to be medically safe and beneficial to the patients, the physicians and the health care system. Our clinical experience suggests that less frequent accessions of PACs is safe and feasible. We strongly advocate future prospective investigation of alternative PAC maintenance protocols in gynecologic cancer patients.

Dalteparin for prevention of catheter-related complications in cancer patients with central venous catheters: final results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III trial

BACKGROUND

Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy experience thromboembolic complications associated with the use of long-term indwelling central venous catheters (CVCs). This prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study evaluated whether prophylactic treatment with a low molecular weight heparin could prevent clinically relevant catheter-related thrombosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy for at least 12 weeks (n=439) were randomly assigned, in a 2:1 ratio, to receive either dalteparin (5000 IU) or placebo, by subcutaneous injection, once daily for 16 weeks. Patients underwent upper extremity evaluation with either venography or ultrasound at the time of a suspected catheter-related complication (CRC) or upon completion of study medication. The primary end point, as determined by a blinded adjudication committee, was the occurrence of a CRC, defined as the first occurrence of any one of the following: clinically relevant catheter-related thrombosis that was symptomatic or that required anticoagulant or fibrinolytic therapy; catheter-related clinically relevant pulmonary embolism; or catheter obstruction requiring catheter removal.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the frequency of CRCs between the dalteparin arm (3.7%) and the placebo arm (3.4%; P=0.88), corresponding to a relative risk of 1.0883 (95% confidence interval 0.37-3.19). No difference in the time to CRC was observed between the two arms (P=0.83). There was no significant difference between the dalteparin and placebo groups in terms of major bleeding (1 versus 0) or overall safety.

CONCLUSIONS

Dalteparin prophylaxis did not reduce the frequency of thromboembolic complications after CVC implantation in cancer patients. Dalteparin was demonstrated to be safe over 16 weeks of treatment in these patients.

Comparisons of outcomes and survivals for two central venous access port systems

BACKGROUND

This study compares the outcomes and survivals between two central venous access port systems.

STUDY DESIGN

Medical records from 298 cancer patients who had received open-end (Deltec, N = 159) or closed-end (Groshong, N = 139) port catheter insertions were retrospectively reviewed.

METHODS

The infection, thrombosis, and surgical complication rates (chi-square test), as well as mean catheter-indwelling-days (t-test) were compared. Kaplan Meier analysis and stratified log rank test were used to compare actuarial survival rates. Cox proportion hazard model was applied to analyze the outcomes predictors.

RESULTS

The total catheter-indwelling-day was 116,603 days in general for this cohort. The Groshong catheters (569 +/- 386.1 days) had longer (P < 0.001) mean catheter-indwelling-day than did Deltec catheters (239 +/- 235.6 days). But the per 1,000 catheter day infection (Deltec 0.18, Groshong 0.16), thrombosis (Deltec 0.07, Groshong 0.06), and surgical complication rates (Deltec 0.07, Groshong 0.02) were equivalent (P > 0.05) between two groups. Patients with leukemia were at higher risk (odds ratio 13.4, P = 0.009) to develop adverse events. However, two types of catheters had similar actuarial survival rates at end of follow up (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

We found infection, thrombosis occlusion, surgical complication, and actuarial device survival rates were similar between Deltec and Groshong groups. Hematogenous malignancy was a risk factor for catheter failure.

Central Venous Lines in Children With Lesser Risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Optimal Type and Timing of Placement

Purpose

In pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the optimal time for central venous line (CVL) insertion and the optimal type of CVL (internal v external) is unclear. This study was undertaken to compare complication rates between early versus late line insertion, and between internal versus external lines in children with lesser risk ALL.

Patients and Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients enrolled onto Pediatric Oncology Group (POG) protocol 9201. Data regarding demographics, CVL types and insertion dates, blood counts, and complications were reviewed through week 25 of therapy.

Results

Of 697 patients enrolled onto POG protocol 9201, 362 patients had sufficient data for analysis. When compared to late line placement (> day 15 of induction), early CVL placement (≤ day 15 of induction) was associated with an increased risk of having a positive blood culture (odds ratio, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.0 to 5.0; P = .05). When compared with internal CVLs (“ports”), external CVLs were associated with a positive blood culture (odds ratio, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.3 to 7.5; P = .01), thrombosis (odds ratio, 3.9; 95% CI, 1.5 to 10.3; P = .006), and CVL removal (odds ratio, 5.6; 95% CI, 2.7 to 11.6; P < .001).

Conclusion

In pediatric patients with lesser risk ALL, internal lines (ports) should be the preferred CVL type due to a lower risk of infectious and thrombotic complications. In addition, CVLs placed early in induction are associated with a higher risk of positive blood culture than those placed later in induction.

Uso de cateteres venosos totalmente implantados para nutrição parenteral: cuidados, tempo de permanência e ocorrência de complicações infecciosas

Cateteres venosos totalmente implantados são utilizados em pacientes com síndrome do intestino curto, para realizar o suporte nutricional parenteral, o qual mantém estes pacientes vivos, pois fornece-lhes nutrientes que são absorvidos pela via digestiva. No entanto, estes cateteres não são isentos de complicações. As infecções relacionadas aos cateteres venosos são as complicações mais temidas e sua incidência varia de 3% a 20%, aumentando em pacientes mais graves. O objetivo do presente estudo é descrever as complicações infecciosas em pacientes recebendo nutrição parenteral por meio de cateteres venosos totalmente implantados. Tais cateteres são utilizados pela Divisão de Nutrição Clínica do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, para realizar o suporte nutricional parenteral em pacientes submetidos a ressecções extensas de intestino delgado. Foram avaliadas as complicações infecciosas ocorridas com 21 cateteres, implantados em 16 pacientes. O tempo de permanência dos cateteres foi de 768±664,3 dias (mediana 529 dias) e a taxa de infecção foi de 0,029 infecções/paciente/ano, resultados que se comparam às taxas de infecção observadas em países desenvolvidos. Concluiu-se que os cuidados observados no manuseio destes cateteres foram de fundamental importância para diminuir a incidência de infecção nestes pacientes.

Long-term outcome of radiological-guided insertion of implanted central venous access port devices (CVAPD) for the delivery of chemotherapy in cancer patients: institutional experience and review of the literature

Central venous access port devices (CVAPD) are necessary for delivery of prolonged infusional chemotherapy or in patients with poor peripheral venous access. Previous studies of Hickman catheters report complication rates in about 45% of patients. Our aim was to assess the early and late complication rate, and duration that the CVAPD remained functional, following insertion by interventional radiologists in patients with solid tumours. A prospective study was undertaken in 110 consecutive patients who had insertion of 111 subclavian CVAPD. The median age of patients was 57 years (range 17–83), 64 were females; 68 patients (61%) had gastrointestinal tumours and 25 (23%) had breast cancer. CVAPD were successfully implanted in all but one patient. There were four (4%) immediate major complications: thrombosis 2 and pneumothorax 2. Nine patients (8%) had bruising or pain. Four devices (4%) became infected. In total, 100 CVAPD (90%) were either removed as planned at the end of treatment (n=23) after a median 203 days, or remained in situ for a median of 237 days (7–1133). Premature removal occurred in eight patients due to infection (n=4), thrombosis (n=3) or faulty device (n=1). Four patients were lost to follow-up. Radiological insertion of CVAPD is safe and convenient with low rates of complications.

Use of totally implantable central venous access ports for high-dose chemotherapy and peripheral blood stem cell transplantation: results of a monocentre series of 376 patients

BACKGROUND

The complication rate of central venous totally implantable access ports (TIAP), used for high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation support, has not been fully investigated to date, due to the almost exclusive use of externalised, tunnelled devices in this clinical setting.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

During a 66-month period (from 1 January 1997 to 30 June 2002), 376 patients suffering from breast cancer, ovarian cancer, lymphoma or multiple myeloma were treated with high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation at the European Institute of Oncology (Milan, Italy). A single type of port was used, constructed from titanium and silicone rubber, connected to a 7.8 F polyurethane catheter (Port-A-Cath; SIMS Deltec, Inc., St Paul, MN, USA) inserted into the subclavian vein. They were followed prospectively for device-related complications until the device was removed, the patient died or the study was closed (30 June 2002).

RESULTS

No TIAP-related deaths were observed in this series. Seven pneumothoraxes (1.8%) occurred as a complication of TIAP placement, one patient only (0.2%) requiring a tube thoracostomy. Port pocket infection occurred twice in this series (0.53%, 0.01 episodes/1000 days of use), whereas three patients suffered from port-related bacteraemia (0.8%, 0.016/1000 days of use). Infections were successfully treated with antibiotics; all three cases had the ports removed at programme completion. Four cases of deep vein thrombosis were detected (1.06%, 0.022/1000 days of use); low molecular weight heparin was given, followed by oral anticoagulants. Finally, one case of extravasation occurred (0.26%, 0.005/1000 days of use), requiring port removal and local medical therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of TIAPs has resulted in a safe and effective option for high-dose chemotherapy deliverance and stem cell transplantation, in spite of inducing severe neutropenia and increasing the risk of sepsis in this category of oncology patient.

American Society of Diagnostic and Interventional Nephrology Section Editor: Stephen Ash: Port Catheter Placement by Nephrologists in an Interventional Nephrology Training Program

We retrospectively reviewed all subcutaneous single- and double-lumen port catheters (PCs) inserted by interventional nephrologists at our institution to determine the success rate, immediate and late complications, and functional life. From January 2000 to August 2002, 187 PCs were placed in 187 patients (42% males, 51% Caucasians, mean age 50 +/- 14 years). There were no immediate complications related to the procedure such as hemorrhage, pulmonary embolism, or pneumothorax. There were a total of 35,078 catheter-days of follow-up. Sixteen catheters were removed during the observation period: three because of infection, seven after completion of chemotherapy, and six for other reasons. The remaining PCs are either functioning or the patients have died. The initial success rate was 100%. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a 30-day survival of 97% and a 1-year survival of 92%. Interventional nephrologists, who have adequate training in central venous tunneled cuffed catheter placements, can successfully place PCs, with excellent success and minimal complications.

Comparison of catheter-related infection risk in two different long-term venous devices in adult hematology-oncology patients

PURPOSE: Infection is the leading complication of long-term central venous catheters, and its incidence may vary according to catheter type. The objective of this study was to compare the frequency and probability of infection between two types of long-term intravenous devices. METHODS: Retrospective study in 96 onco-hematology patients with partially implanted catheters (n = 55) or completely implanted ones (n = 42). Demographic data and catheter care were similar in both groups. Infection incidence and infection-free survival were used for the comparison of the two devices. RESULTS: In a median follow-up time of 210 days, the catheter-related infection incidence was 0.2102/100 catheter-days for the partially implanted devices and 0.0045/100 catheter-days for the completely implanted devices; the infection incidence rate was 46.7 (CI 95% = 6.2 to 348.8). The 1-year first infection-free survival ratio was 45% versus 97%, and the 1-year removal due to infection-free survival ratio was 42% versus 97% for partially and totally implanted catheters, respectively (P <.001 for both comparisons). CONCLUSION: In the present study, the infection risk was lower in completely implanted devices than in partially implanted ones.

Complications of indwelling venous access devices in patients with gynecologic malignancies☆

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the complication rates associated with indwelling venous access devices in patients with gynecologic malignancies.

METHODS

Following IRB approval, a computerized database identified women that had indwelling access devices placed for chemotherapy from March 1999 to June 2001. A retrospective chart review identified 116 venous access devices that were placed in 104 patients. All devices were silicone and had a closed tip design with a three-position valve. Data were collected on patient demographics, clinicopathologic features, type of venous device, and complications. The chi(2) test was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 104 patients, 79 had ovarian cancer, 11 had uterine cancer, 10 had cervical cancer, 2 had fallopian tube cancer, and 2 had vaginal cancer. The median age was 61 years. There were a total of 116 venous devices placed: 65 external catheters (EC) and 51 subcutaneous ports (SP). Seventy-nine percent of the patients were administered low-dose coumadin (1 mg/day) for catheter clot prophylaxis. There were three operative complications in the EC group and two in the SP group (P = NS). The most common postoperative complications were infection and thrombosis. Nineteen patients in the EC group experienced a catheter-related infection versus 5 in the SP group (P = 0.025). In the EC group, there were 11 cases of site infection and 8 cases of line sepsis. In contrast, there were 3 cases of exit site infection and 2 cases of line sepsis in the SP group. Deep vein thrombosis occurred in 5 patients with EC and 3 patients with SP (P = NS). Twenty-seven patients with EC had the device removed for catheter-related complications versus 2 patients with SP (P = 0.001). Six patients inadvertently removed their EC.

CONCLUSION

There is a significantly higher postoperative complication rate in gynecologic oncology patients with external catheters versus subcutaneous ports. Infection and catheter-related malfunction are more common in patients with external catheters. We recommend the use of subcutaneous ports in the majority of patients with gynecologic malignancies.

Venous thromboembolism associated with long-term use of central venous catheters in cancer patients

Long-term central venous catheters (CVCs) have considerably improved the management of cancer patients because they facilitate chemotherapy, transfusions, parenteral nutrition, and blood sampling. However, the use of long-term CVCs, especially for chemotherapy, has been associated with the occurrence of upper-limb deep venous thrombosis (UL-DVT). The incidence of clinically overt UL-DVT related to CVCs has been reported to vary between 0.3% and 28.3%. The incidence of CVC-related UL-DVT screened by venography reportedly varies between 27% and 66%. The incidence of clinically overt pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients with CVC-related UL-DVT ranges from 15% to 25%, but an autopsy-proven PE rate of up to 50% has been reported. Vessel injury caused by the procedure of CVC insertion, venous stasis caused by the indwelling CVC, and cancer-related hypercoagulability are the main pathogenetic factors for CVC-related venous thromboembolism (VTE). Several studies have assessed the benefit of the prophylaxis of UL-DVT after CVC insertion in cancer patients. According to the results of these studies, prophylaxis with low molecular weight heparin or a low fixed dose of warfarin has been recently proposed. However, the limitations of the experimental design of the prophylactic studies do not allow definitive recommendations. The recommended therapy for UL-DVT associated with CVC is based on anticoagulant therapy with or without catheter removal. This review focuses on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of VTE in cancer patients with long-term CVC.

Central line thrombosis in patients with cancer

Central venous catheters are used frequently to care for patients with cancer and often serve as long-term venous access. Catheter-related central venous thrombosis is a serious and common complication in these patients. The incidence of this event ranges from 2 to 40%. Potential risk factors are catheter position, size of the catheter, and perhaps site of insertion. The diagnosis of catheter-associated deep venous thrombosis may be difficult. Doppler ultrasound has a lower accuracy in this setting than it does in symptomatic lower extremity venous thrombosis. No clinical management studies have validated the practice of withholding anticoagulant therapy in patients with a negative Doppler ultrasound. The practice of prophylaxis with low-dose warfarin or low-molecular-weight heparin has been recommended, although results from recent studies have called this into question. Larger, prospective, randomized trials with a uniform population of patients or stratification of risk factors will be essential to address this issue further.

Central venous line-related thrombosis in children: association with central venous line location and insertion technique

Venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) in children are associated with central venous lines (CVLs). The study objective was to assess whether CVL location and insertion technique are associated with the incidence of VTE in children. We hypothesized that VTE would be more frequent with (1). CVL location on the left body side, (2). CVL location in the subclavian vein rather than the jugular vein, and (3). CVL insertion by percutaneous technique rather than venous cut-down. This was a prospective, multicenter cohort study in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia who had a CVL placed in the upper venous system during induction chemotherapy. Characteristics of CVL were documented prospectively. All children had outcome assessment for VTE by objective radiographic tests, including bilateral venography, ultrasound, echocardiography, and cranial magnetic resonance imaging. Among 85 children, 29 (34%) had VTE; 28 VTEs appeared in the upper venous system, and 1 was sinovenous thrombosis. Left-sided CVL (odds ratio [OR], 2.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.0-6.4; P =.048), subclavian CVL (OR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.2-8.5; P =.025), and percutaneous CVL insertion (OR, 3.5; 95% CI, 1.3-9.2; P =.011) were associated with an increased incidence of VTE. Interaction occurred between CVL vein location and insertion technique. Subclavian vein CVL inserted percutaneously had an increased incidence (54%) of VTE compared with any other combination (P =.07). For CVL in the upper venous system, CVL placement on the right side and in the jugular vein may reduce the risk for CVL-related VTE. If subclavian vein placement is necessary, CVL insertion by venous cut-down appears preferable over percutaneous insertion.

A prospective double-blind randomized trial of urokinase flushes to prevent bacteremia resulting from luminal colonization of subcutaneous central venous catheters

PURPOSE

This study was undertaken to determine if central venous catheter (CVC)-related infection in children with cancer could be prevented by monthly flushing of the catheter with urokinase.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between August 1994 and July 1998, 103 patients with cancer were randomized at the time of subcutaneous CVC placement to receive monthly flushing of their catheters with either 5000 IU of urokinase-heparin or heparin alone. Patients subsequently had blood cultures taken from their CVCs during an episode of fever.

RESULTS

Seventy-four of the 103 patients (72%) enrolled in the study received at least 6 catheter flushes: 40 with urokinase-heparin and 34 with heparin. The median number of flushes was 9.5 in the urokinase-heparin group and 10.2 in the heparin-only group (P = 0.62). There were 5 positive blood cultures in the urokinase-heparin group and seven in patients receiving heparin alone (P = 0.27). Staphylococcus epidermidis was isolated from the blood of 3 patients receiving urokinase-heparin and 6 in those receiving heparin alone (P = 0.17).

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic monthly catheter flushes with 5000 IU urokinase did not significantly decrease the number of documented bacteremic events in children with cancer who have CVCs.

Totally implantable venous-access ports: local problems and extravasation injury

Totally implantable venous-access ports (TIVAPs) are valuable instruments for long-term intravenous treatment of patients with cancer, but implantation and use of these devices are each associated with complications. In addition to the perioperative problems, long-term complications can arise; these can be classified in five categories-catheter malfunction, catheter-related venous thrombosis, catheter-related infection, port-related complications, and extravasation injury. Such complications reduce the benefits of reliable access to the venous system in patients with malignant tumours. The vast majority of such disadvantages are attributable to inexpert handling of ports and, therefore, should be avoidable. TIVAP placement procedures and TIVAP complications are discussed in this review, with special emphasis on local problems and extravasation injuries. To obtain maximum benefit from TIVAPs, all health-care personnel must be familiar with the use and routine maintenance procedures of the devices and treatment options for catheter-related complications.

Catheter-related bacteremia due to Kocuria kristinae in a patient with ovarian cancer

We report on the first case of a catheter-related recurrent bacteremia caused by Kocuria kristinae, a gram-positive microorganism belonging to the family Micrococcaceae, in a 51-year-old woman with ovarian cancer. This unusual pathogen may cause opportunistic infections in patients with severe underlying diseases.

Double lumen port access in patients receiving allogeneic blood stem cell transplantation

We performed a prospective trial investigating the feasibility of a double lumen port access in 26 patients with hematological malignancies or solid tumors receiving either standard conditioning (n = 9, median age 49 years (range 19-65)) or dose-reduced conditioning (n = 17, median age 56 years (range 35-66)) followed by allogeneic blood stem cell transplantation. The port system was implanted within 3 months (n = 20, range 7-91 days) before transplantation or as indicated at different time points after transplantation (n = 6, range 28-680 days). Most infusions, including the graft itself and all blood drawings, were performed via the port. Over a cumulative duration of 5622 days (1310 days after standard conditioning (range 56-349) and 4431 days after dose-reduced conditioning (range 49-489)) two port systems of patients receiving standard conditioning were removed due to early postimplantation pocket infection on day 6 and 8 after insertion, respectively. In the dose-reduced conditioning group only one late removal (day 287) of a port was required. Most of the patients in both groups reported less pain and a higher degree of comfort compared to peripheral or central venipuncture. The use of double lumen port access during conditioning and in an outpatient setting after allogeneic hemopoietic stem cell transplantation is feasible and advantageous for both patient and medical staff. Implantation several weeks before the start of conditioning might help in avoiding early infectious complications after conventional myeloablative conditioning.

A randomized, prospective trial of central venous ports connected to standard open-ended or Groshong catheters in adult oncology patients

BACKGROUND

Implanted central venous access is practiced extensively in oncology; however, information on the relevance of using the device with a valved catheter (Groshong), compared with an open-ended catheter, is scarce. The authors investigated the two types of catheters in a randomized trial using the same type of subcutaneous port and evaluated efficacy as well as early and late complications.

METHODS

Three hundred four patients with malignant disease (solid tumors) who were eligible to receive intravenous chemotherapy were accrued during a 15-month period. After providing informed consent, the patients were assigned randomly to implantation of a titanium and silicone, rubber port (Dome Port; Bard Inc., Salt Lake City, UT) attached either to an 8.0-F silastic Groshongtrade mark catheter tube (experimental group) or to a 9.6-F silastic open-ended catheter tube (control group). Both catheters were manufactured by Bard Inc. Implantation, care, and follow-up followed the same protocol guidelines until removal of the device, death, or ending of the study. Power and color Doppler ultrasound examinations of internal jugular and subclavian veins were performed at 1 month and at 4 months or at anytime when a venous thrombosis was suspected.

RESULTS

Three hundred two patients (99.3%) were evaluable, 150 patients in the control group and 152 in the experimental group. The median follow-up was 237 days. There was a trend toward more early complications in the experimental group (5.9%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 2.7-10.9%) than in the control group (2.7%; 95% CI, 0.7-6.7%), although the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.26). There was also a trend toward more late complications in the experimental group (17.1%; 95% CI, 11.5-24.1%) compared with the control group (10.7%; 95% CI, 6.2-16.7%; P = 0.13), although the difference, again, was not statistically significant. The most frequent late complication was the inability to draw blood samples (12.5% in the experimental group and 2% in the control group; P < 0.001). Sepsis was observed in 1 patient and in 3 patients and venous thrombosis was observed in 6 patients and in 11 patients in the experimental and control treatment groups, respectively (P value not significant).

CONCLUSIONS

In the tested clinical setting, the use of a Groshong catheter was not superior to a traditional, open-ended device in terms of early and late complications of the implant and its use. The theoretical justification for its superiority for more efficient use of the implantable device could not be substantiated.

Vancomycin and ceftazidime bioactivities persist for at least 2 weeks in the lumen in ports: simplifying treatment of port-associated bloodstream infections by using the antibiotic lock technique

The residual antibiotic concentration of vancomycin (2 mg/ml)- or ceftazidime (2 mg/ml)-heparin solutions instilled in ports in pediatric hematology-oncology patients 1 to 34 days earlier was measured. Antibiotic concentrations of > or = 100 microg of either antibiotic per ml persisted for at least 21 days. For treatment of lumenal port infections, antibiotic-heparin dwell times of > or = 2 weeks may be appropriate.

Longterm central venous access in gynecologic cancer patients

BACKGROUND

To assess the utility and safety of three different longterm indwelling intravenous catheters in patients with gynecologic malignancies.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective review was performed of the records of all women with gynecologic malignancies who required longterm venous access catheters and ports between 1990 and 1997.

RESULTS

Two hundred sixty-eight women underwent placement of 308 indwelling catheters, of which 305 were available for analysis. Of those, 68 (22%) were Hickman catheters, 162 (53%) were infusaports, and 75 (25%) were Peripheral Access System (PAS) ports. Venous access was obtained percutaneously in 152 (50%) patients and by cutdown in 153 (50%). Prophylactic anticoagulation was used with 96 catheters (31%). Catheter placement was associated with 12 (4%) immediate complications and 87 (29%) delayed complications. The average duration of a catheter in place was 5.6 months for the Hickman, 12.5 months for the infusaport, and 16.0 months for the PAS port (p < 0.001). Bacteremia was more likely to develop in patients with Hickman catheters when compared with those with infusaports and PAS ports (19% versus 6% and 5%, respectively, p = 0.002). Thrombosis was significantly less likely to develop in patients receiving prophylactic anticoagulation (11% versus 4%, p = 0.004). Overall, the complication rate was lower with cutdown versus percutaneous access (p = 0.004). There was no statistically significant difference between the frequency of complications when correlated with the stage of disease, patient age, body mass index, or type of malignancy.

CONCLUSIONS

Infusaports and PAS ports were associated with a lower risk of infection and have a longer life than Hickman catheters. The cutdown approach was associated with a lower complication rate. Low-dose prophylactic anticoagulation should be given to all patients with longterm central venous catheters.

Brevibacterium casei sepsis in an 18-year-old female with AIDS

Brevibacterium sp. was isolated from the blood of an acutely ill 18-year-old female with AIDS. The isolate was identified as Brevibacterium casei by use of carbohydrate assimilation tests. Treatment was successful with intravenously administered ciprofloxacin. To our knowledge, this is the first report of sepsis caused by B. casei in a human immunodeficiency virus-infected patient.

Indications and complications of intravenous devices for chemotherapy

Vascular access devices (VADs) are frequently used in patients with cancer. Vascular access devices can be divided into external catheters and subcutaneous venous access ports. Each type of device has its advantages and disadvantages, but the indications and optimal use of specific VADs remain to be defined. There are multiple complications of VADs but, with the exception of catheter-related bloodstream infections and thrombosis, most complications are rare. The use of VADs impregnated with antibiotic reduces the rates of catheter colonization and catheter-related bloodstream infections as compared with the use of unimpregnated catheters for short-term use. Thrombosis remains a major complication of VADs, and prospective, controlled studies are needed to clearly define the risk factors, natural history, and optimal treatment of this complication.

Peripheral venous access ports: outcomes analysis in 109 patients

PURPOSE

To perform a retrospective outcomes analysis of central venous catheters with peripheral venous access ports, with comparison to published data.

METHODS

One hundred and twelve central venous catheters with peripherally placed access ports were placed under sonographic guidance in 109 patients over a 4-year period. Ports were placed for the administration of chemotherapy, hyperalimentation, long-term antibiotic therapy, gamma-globulin therapy, and frequent blood sampling. A vein in the upper arm was accessed in each case and the catheter was passed to the superior vena cava or right atrium. Povidone iodine skin preparation was used in the first 65 port insertions. A combination of Iodophor solution and povidone iodine solution was used in the last 47 port insertions. Forty patients received low-dose (1 mg) warfarin sodium beginning the day after port insertion. Three patients received higher doses of warfarin sodium for preexistent venous thrombosis. Catheter performance and complications were assessed and compared with published data.

RESULTS

Access into the basilic or brachial veins was obtained in all cases. Ports remained functional for a total of 28,936 patient days. The port functioned in 50% of patients until completion of therapy, or the patient's expiration. Ports were removed prior to completion of therapy in 18% of patients. Eleven patients (9.9% of ports placed) suffered an infectious complication (0.38 per thousand catheter-days)-in nine, at the port implantation site, in two along the catheter. In all 11 instances the port was removed. Port pocket infection in the early postoperative period occurred in three patients (4.7%) receiving a Betadine prep vs two patients (4.2%) receiving a standard O.R. prep. This difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.9). Venous thrombosis occurred in three patients (6.8%) receiving warfarin sodium and in two patients (3%) not receiving warfarin sodium. This difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.6). Aspiration occlusion occurred in 13 patients (11.7%). Intracatheter urokinase was infused in eight of these patients and successfully restored catheter function in all but two instances. These complication rates are comparable to or better than those reported with chest ports.

CONCLUSION

Peripheral ports for long-term central venous access placed by interventional radiologists in the interventional radiology suite are as safe and as effective as chest ports.

A retrospective analysis of Hickman line-associated complications in patients with solid tumours undergoing infusional chemotherapy

We present a retrospective analysis of Hickman line use and associated complications in patients with solid tumours undergoing treatment with infusional chemotherapy. One hundred and ten lines were inserted in 94 patients (55 females and 39 males, median age 51), of whom 107 were placed under radiological screening, the remainder by a surgical approach. Catheters were in situ for a total of 9670 days (median 101 days, range 1-278). Fifty-five complications occurred during the lifespan of 39 catheters (35.5%), giving an overall complication rate of 4.03/1000 catheter days. Early complications included pneumothorax (4%), arterial puncture (1%) and failure of placement (1%). Late complications included sepsis (superficial and systemic) (24.5%), venous thrombosis (9%), line displacement (10%) and catheter blockage (1%). Fifteen episodes of systemic sepsis occurred in 12 patients, giving an overall sepsis rate of 1.55/1000 catheter days, while complications requiring catheter removal occurred in 20 cases (18% of insertions, 2.07/1000 catheter days). We conclude that the use of Hickman catheters as a means of long-term venous access in infusional chemotherapy patients is generally safe, but is associated with significant morbidity.

Diagnosis of venous access port-related infections

The accumulation of infected clots under the silicone septum of the reservoir of venous access ports (VAPs) has been reported. We analyzed the relationship between these deposits and the occurrence of VAP-related bloodstream infections (VAP-BSIs) by (1) evaluating the accuracy of paired quantitative blood cultures for diagnosing VAP-BSI before the removal of the device and (2) assessing the accuracy of cultures of the tip and septum (i.e., the internal lumen of the VAP) for diagnosing VAP-BSI after removal of the device. Over a 16-month period, all VAPs removed were prospectively investigated. Before VAP removal, paired quantitative blood cultures were 77% sensitive and 100% specific and had a positive predictive value of 100% and a negative predictive value of 98% for diagnosing VAP-BSI. After VAP removal, tip culture was only 46% sensitive, whereas septum culture was 93.3% sensitive for confirming the diagnosis of VAP-BSI. Thus infected deposits that accumulate under the VAP septum are the source of VAP-BSI.

Sepsis

OBJECTIVES

To review infection and sepsis in patients with cancer and to provide an overview of controversies and research-based practices of infectious complications and management strategies.

DATA SOURCES

Research studies, review articles, web sites, and consensus documents.

CONCLUSIONS

Traditional assumptions about infection and its optimal management are redefined by research regarding transfusion and catheter-related infections, prophylactic antibiotic administration, use of growth factors, and antimicrobial therapy regimens.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Infection is still the most common source of morbidity and mortality among cancer patients. The importance of recognizing high-risk patients, implementing infection prevention practices, and prompt intervention for infection symptoms has been established.

Right atrial catheter-related complications in pediatric oncology patients: the situation in a developing country

The complications of right atrial catheters (RACs) in pediatric oncology patients are unknown for centers in developing countries. This study examined the complications of RACs at Ankara University Medical School, Turkey. A total of 90 RACs were placed in 61 children for long-term chemotherapy with a total experience of 15,536 catheter days. The rate of catheter-related sepsis was 4.9 episodes per 1000 catheter days. Coagulase-negative staphylococci and Candida species were the most common organisms, accounting for 25.0 and 13.1% of all organisms, respectively. The most common reasons for the removal of the RACs were infection (42.4%) and dislodgement (32.2%). The rates of complications were significantly higher in this study than in western studies. This increase could be explained by the differences in catheter care practices in the Turkish center. In conclusion, the use of RACs in a developing country necessitates an appraisal of the benefits and risks for each patient and improvement of catheter care procedures.

Central venous catheter use and the risk of infection in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a report from the Children's Cancer Group

PURPOSE

To describe patterns of central venous catheter (CVC) use and determine the risk of infection associated with a catheter in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Children with ALL (n = 1934), participating in Children's Cancer Group studies for good-prognosis ALL (CCG-1881) and intermediate-risk ALL (CCG-1891) were evaluated in a retrospective case-control study. The presence of a catheter and the occurrence of infectious complications were recorded after each treatment phase.

RESULTS

Young age and enrollment in the intermediate-risk study were associated with higher rates of catheter use. During each of the first four phases of therapy, the adjusted risk of infection was two- to fourfold higher when a catheter was in place. The proportion of patients with infection during the first four phases of therapy was 2.6 times higher with a CVC (14.4% versus 5.7%). Catheter use was associated with significantly increased hospitalization rates during induction, consolidation, and interim maintenance, but not during delayed intensification. A catheter did not significantly increase the risk of fever during neutropenia.

CONCLUSION

The presence of a CVC increases the risk of infection during the early phases of low-intensity therapy for ALL.

Totally implantable venous access ports systems for patients receiving chemotherapy for solid tissue malignancies: A randomized controlled clinical trial examining the safety, efficacy, costs, and impact on quality of life

PURPOSE

To examine the safety, efficacy, costs, and impact on quality of life of venous access ports implanted at the outset of a course of intravenous cancer chemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Adults beginning a course of intravenous chemotherapy at two university-affiliated hospitals were randomly allocated to have venous access using a surgically implanted venous access port (Port-a-Cath; Pharmacia, Canada Inc, Montreal, Québec, Canada) or using standard peripheral venous access. All accesses were documented by number, route, purpose, and procedure duration. Outcome measurements included port complications, access strategy failure, access-related anxiety and pain, quality of life (Functional Living Index-Cancer [FLI-C]), and costs.

RESULTS

Port complication rates were low (0.23/1,000 days). Failure occurred in two (3.4%) of 59 port subjects and 16 (26.7%) of 60 controls (P =. 0004) at a median period of 26 days after randomization (95% confidence interval, 8 to 92). Peripheral accesses in port subjects took less time, had less access-related anxiety and pain, and were less costly to perform than in controls. Allocation had no effect on FLI-C scores. Peripheral access failure correlated with allocation to the control group (P =.007), higher pain scores with intravenous (IV) starts (P =.003), and anxiety with IV starts (P =.01). Venous accessing overall in port patients was four times more costly than that in controls ($2,178/patient v $530/patient, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Ports were safe and effective but had no detectable impact on functional quality of life, despite less access-related anxiety, pain, and discomfort. Because only approximately one quarter of control patients ultimately required central venous access, economic considerations suggest that port-use policies should be based upon defined criteria of need.

Regional thrombolysis with urokinase for central venous catheter-related thrombosis in patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy with autologous blood stem cell rescue

Fifty-one of 300 patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy with (n = 245) or without (n = 55) autologous stem cell rescue developed central venous catheter-related thrombosis diagnosed by Doppler sonography or contrast venography. Eighteen of these individuals underwent regional thrombolysis defined as the infusion of urokinase into a superficial vein of the ipsilateral upper extremity in a dose not sufficient to produce systemic fibrinolysis by laboratory criteria. Urokinase was administered at a dose of 75,000-150,000 U/hour for 24 to 96 hours and contrast venography was performed to assess response. All individuals had a partial or complete resolution of clinical signs and symptoms. Fifty percent of patients also achieved a partial radiographic response defined as clot lysis with irregular canalization of the vein. Therapeutic doses of heparin for 5 to 7 days and warfarin for at least 3 months were commenced at the conclusion of urokinase therapy. Twelve catheters were salvaged and utilized subsequently until no longer required. Six catheters were removed because of poor catheter function or rethrombosis. The median interval from diagnosis of the thrombus until extraction of the 12 salvaged catheters was 3 months (range 1-8 months). Only a single patient who developed gastrointestinal bleeding required discontinuation of urokinase. Regional thrombolysis is safe, easy to administer, effective in many instances, less costly than the doses of antifibrinolytic agents required to induce systemic fibrinolysis, and should be considered in patients receiving high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell rescue who develop central venous catheter-related thrombosis.

Catheter complications in AIDS patients treated for cytomegalovirus retinitis

PURPOSE

To describe the complications of central venous catheter use for intravenous therapy of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with AIDS.

METHODS

Retrospective review of 388 patients with AIDS and CMV retinitis treated with intravenous medications through an indwelling catheter.

RESULTS

The catheter complication rate was 1.2 complications per person-year (0.33 complications per 100 catheter-days). Current injecting drug use increased the risk of infectious complications [hazard ratio (HR), 1.73; P=0.04] whereas former use did not (HR, 0.96; P=0.88). Subdermal port catheters increased the risk of bacteremia (HR, 1.78; P=0.05). Mortality for the first complication was 5.8%. Forty percent of patients required catheter removal, and 86.8% of these patients required reinsertion of another catheter.

CONCLUSIONS

Catheter complications are a substantial problem in patients with CMV retinitis treated with daily intravenous therapy.

Complications related to indwelling caval catheters on a gynecologic oncology service

OBJECTIVE

To assess the rate of complications of indwelling caval catheter (ICC) use on a gynecologic oncology service and to compare complication rates between subcutaneous ports and external catheters.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 185 patients who underwent 216 ICC placements between April 1, 1987 and April 1, 1997, was performed. Patient and catheter characteristics were analyzed as they related to the rate of pneumothorax, bacteremia, and deep neck and thoracic vein thrombosis (DNVT).

RESULTS

A total of 216 ICCs were placed including 152 implanted ports and 64 external catheters. Pneumothorax occurred in 2% of ICC insertions. Bacteremia complicated 16% of ICCs. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that external catheters (P < 0.01) and neutropenia (P < 0.01) were independent risk factors for bacteremia. DNVT complicated 6% of ICCs and was observed significantly (P < 0.02) more frequently among 11 catheters placed in patients with clear cell malignancies of the female reproductive tract. Unplanned catheter removal occurred significantly (P < 0.01) more frequently among patients with external catheters compared to implanted devices.

CONCLUSIONS

Implantable ICCs appear to offer a significant advantage compared to external devices with regard to the development of bacteremia and unplanned catheter removal. Though catheter type, neutropenia, and TPN are associated with an increased incidence of bacteremia, multivariate analysis does not include TPN as an independent risk factor for ICC-related bacteremia. A significant increase in the rate of DNVT among a small number of patients with clear cell gynecologic malignancies warrants further study.

Totally implantable central venous access ports for long-term chemotherapy. A prospective study analyzing complications and costs of 333 devices with a minimum follow-up of 180 days

BACKGROUND

A few data are available from analyses of the complications and costs of central venous access ports for chemotherapy. This prospective study deals with the complications and global costs of central venous ports connected to a Groshong catheter for deliverance of long-term chemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with a variety of solid neoplastic diseases requiring chemotherapy who were undergoing placement of implantable ports over a 30-month period (1 October 1994 to 31 March 1997) have been prospectively studied. Follow-up continued until the device was removed or the study was closed (30 September 1997); patients with uneventful implant experience and subsequent follow-ups of less than 180 days were not considered for this study. A single port, constructed of titanium and silicone rubber (Dome Port, Bard Inc., Salt Lake City, USA), was used, connected to an 8 F silastic Groshong catheter tubing (Bard Inc., Salt Lake City, USA). Two-hundred ninety-six devices were placed in the operating room under fluoroscopic control even in the patients treated and monitored in a day-hospital setting: 37 of them were in an angiographic suite. A central venous access form was filled in by the operator after the procedure and all ports were followed prospectively for device-related and overall complications. The average purchase cost of the device was obtained from the hospital charges, based on the costs applied during the 30-month period of the study. Insertion and maintenance costs were estimated by obtaining the charges for an average TIAP implant and its subsequent use; the costs of complication management were assessed analytically. The total cost of each device was defined as the purchase cost plus the insertion cost plus the maintenance cost plus the cost of treatment of the complications, if any. The cost of removing the TIAP was also included in the economic analysis when required by the treatment of the complication.

RESULTS

Three hundred thirty-three devices, for a total of 79,178 days in situ, were placed in 328 patients. Five patients received second devices after removal of the first. In all cases the follow-up was appropriate (median 237 days, range 180-732). Early complications included 10 pneumothoraxes (3.4%; six tube-thoracostomies were applied, 1.8%) and six revisions for port and/or catheter malfunction (overall early complications = 16, 4.48%). Late complications comprised five instances of catheter rupture and embolization (1.5%, 0.063 episodes/1000 days of use), five of venous thrombosis (1.5%, 0.063 episodes/1000 days of use), one of pocket infection (0.3%, 0.012 episodes/1000 days of use), and eight of port-related bacteremia (2.4%, 0.101 episodes/1000 days of use). The infections were caused by coagulase-negative Staphylococcus aureus (five cases), Bacillus subtilis (one case), Streptococcus lactaceae (one case) and an unknown agent (one case); port removal was necessary in six of eight cases. The total cost per patient treated for a six-month period, consisting of the costs of purchase and implantation, treatment of early and late complications, and of maintenance of the device, is US$1,970.

CONCLUSIONS

This study represents the largest published series of patients with totally implantable access ports connected to a Groshong catheter. We have shown that US$2,000 are sufficient to cover six months of chemotherapy in one patient using the most expensive commercially available implantable port. According to the present study, totally implantable access ports connected to a Groshong catheter are associated with high purchase and insertion costs, a low complication rate and low maintenance costs. These data support their increasing use in current oncologic medical practice.

Risk factors for early infection of central venous catheters in pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

In an effort to avoid infections that can lead to the premature removal of indwelling central venous catheters (CVCs), the surgical technique and host factors present in pediatric recipients of permanent CVCs were reviewed.

STUDY DESIGN

All patients receiving CVCs over a 17-month period were identified. Those patients with fever and positive blood cultures drawn through the CVC within 45 days of line placement were labeled as having early infection. A case-control design was used to select two control patients for each infected patient. Charts from both the infection and control groups were reviewed for several factors present at the time of CVC placement, including fever, neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count [ANC] < 500 and ANC < 1,000), use of perioperative antibiotics, diagnosis, CVC site, and type of CVC. Chi-square test with Yates correction was used to compare the groups. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals were derived.

RESULTS

Among the 473 CVCs placed, early infections developed in 53 patients (12%). The control group consisted of 106 patients. Neutropenia was present in 16 of 53 infected patients versus 8 of 106 controls (p = 0.004, OR = 5.30). Perioperative antibiotics were given to 25 of 53 infected patients versus 72 of 106 controls (p = 0.02, OR = 0.42). Fever was present in 12 of 53 infected patients versus 14 of 106 controls (p = 0.19, OR = 1.92). Factors that were equally prevalent between the groups and that did not appear to influence the CVC infection rate included a diagnosis of malignancy, CVC type, and site of placement. Of the 53 infected catheters, 16 (30%) could not be cleared of infection and were removed.

CONCLUSIONS

This study documents that neutropenia and failure to administer prophylactic antibiotics are risk factors for the development of early CVC infection in pediatric patients. To avoid early infection and possible premature CVC removal, we recommend that placement of permanent CVCs be postponed until the ANC is > 1,000. Perioperative antibiotics should be given. A trend toward higher infection rates was seen in patients with preoperative fever.

Catheter-related infection: an update on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Catheter-related infection (CRI) accounts for a large percentage of nosocomial infections, and related bacteremia is a common complication. Bacteremia arises in approximately 1 of 15 episodes of CRI and causes considerable morbidity and occasional mortality, as well as increased medical costs. The diagnosis of CRI and catheter-related bacteremia (CRB) is still a challenge for practitioners treating catheterized patients. Semiquantitative tip culture by the roll-plate method is the cornerstone for diagnosis of CRI in routine practice. However, there is a great deal of interest in the alternative methods for diagnosing CRI without catheter withdrawal, since treatment of the patient can be successfully completed with the infected device maintained in place. The conservative management of CRI includes perfusion of antibiotics through the infected catheter and the antibiotic-lock technique (ALT). Catheter-related infection prevention is accomplished mainly by strict adherence to hygienic practices in insertion and manipulation of the catheter. However, knowledge of the pathophysiology of CRI has led to the development of new sophisticated catheters and hubs that incorporate mechanical and antibacterial barriers.

Complications of central venous access devices in children with and without cancer

OBJECTIVE

Complications of indwelling central venous access devices (CVAD) were assessed in 63 children with cancer and 35 without cancer.

METHODOLOGY

Central venous access devices placed surgically in 1991 were reviewed for complications.

RESULTS

In cancer patients, the median CVAD duration was 211 days (range 9-924), compared to 37 days (range 3-339) in the non-cancer patients. Although significantly more CVAD, 41 of 72 (57%), were infected in the cancer patients compared to 14 of 40 (35%) CVAD in the non-cancer patients (OR = 2.46, 95% CI 1.03-5.93), the rate of line infection in cancer patients was lower: 2.8 per 1000 catheter days compared with 7.6 per 1000 in non-cancer patients (P = 0.0014). Infection was significantly more common in intensive chemotherapy cancer patients (P = 0.0002).

CONCLUSIONS

Treating infected CVAD with antibiotics or hydrochloric acid (HCl), clearing occluded lines with streptokinase/HCl and repairing fractured lines, when successful, resulted in a considerable gain in the number of days of use for the CVAD.

Experience with 100 consecutive central venous access arm ports placed by interventional radiologists

PURPOSE

This study reports the authors' experience with long-term follow-up of 100 consecutive peripherally inserted, subcutaneous arm ports for central venous access.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred patients with subcutaneous arm ports inserted by interventional radiologists were retrospectively studied. Data were collected from the patients' medical records and from telephone canvassing. Using each insertion period as an observation, the complication rates per 100 catheter days were determined with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

One hundred subcutaneously implanted ports were placed in 98 patients; three devices (three patients) were lost to follow-up, leaving 97 devices in 95 patients. Total exposure time was 23,842 days (mean, 246 days; range, 2-865 days). Seven infectious and two noninfectious complications occurred with seven (7.2%) devices in six patients (6.3%), yielding 0.038 complications per 100 catheter days at risk (95% CI; 0.011-0.069) and 0.029 infections per 100 catheter days at risk (95% CI; 0.008-0.058). A successful clinical outcome was defined as a functional port at removal, time of death, or at study closure (minimum of 6 months of follow-up), which was not removed because of a complication. This successful outcome was achieved in 91 ports (93.8%). Procedural-related complications, defined as those occurring up to 30 days after insertion, occurred in only one port (thrombophlebitis and catheter tip infection-day 9). All other patients received several months of service from their port. Fifteen devices were placed in 13 patients with HIV for 3,486 days, with a total complication rate of 0.11 per 100 catheter days (95% CI; 0.0-0.28), all of which were infections. Devices in HIV-positive patients were associated with higher total complication (20% vs 4.9%) and infection rates (20% vs 3.7%) than devices in patients without HIV infection. This gives a relative risk 8.17 x (P = .04) greater for infectious complications for devices placed in HIV-infected individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

Subcutaneous arm ports placed by interventional radiologists are effective for central venous access with excellent functionality (93.8% achieved a successful long-term outcome) and a very low procedural complication rate. Although infections were more frequent in HIV-infected individuals, these devices are associated with a very low incidence of both immediate and long-term complications, including infection, for all patients.

The timing and sequence of multiple device-related complications in patients with indwelling subcutaneous ports

BACKGROUND

Multiple complications associated with venous access ports are a common occurrence. In an effort to define patterns of sequential complications in our community, we undertook a prospective analysis of adult cancer patients in whom a subcutaneous port was inserted.

METHODS

One hundred nineteen consecutive adult cancer patients in whom a subcutaneous port was inserted were observed prospectively for the development of complications.

RESULTS

Complications were identified in 70 of the 91 evaluable patients, while sequential complications were identified in 35 patients (38%). In aggregate, 121 complications were identified. The ball-valve effect, the most frequently identified problem, was found to occur disproportionately as a primary complication (52 of 70 versus 26 of 51, P <0.02). In contrast, port-related venous thrombosis was identified most frequently as a subsequent complication (11 of 51 versus 4 of 70, P <0.02). The only identified risk factor for the development of port-related complications was the ball-valve effect, found to be associated with the subsequent development of port-related venous thrombosis (9 of 52 versus 2 of 69, P <0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple sequential complications of subcutaneous ports are common and occur in a rather predictable order. The occurrence of port-related venous thrombosis in patients with an earlier, relatively minor vascular complication (ball-valve effect) suggests a cause-effect relationship. Insight into complication sequencing may lead to improved strategies for prevention and therapy.

Fluoroscopy-free placement of standard chest wall subcutaneous chronic venous access devices

BACKGROUND

This study was undertaken to evaluate the potential benefits of using an electromagnetic detection system to guide the intraoperative placement of chronic venous access devices (CVADs).

STUDY DESIGN

An electromagnetic detection system was used to guide catheter placement during 54 procedures. Surgery and radiation exposure times were recorded. An oncology nursing follow-up questionnaire assessed device function. A cost analysis was performed. Outcomes were compared to similar data from a fluoroscopic historical control group.

RESULTS

Eight study patients required intraoperative fluoroscopy; in 46 procedures (85%) the electromagnetic detection system was the sole modality employed to guide CVAD placement. One line was subsequently found in the internal mammary vein (2% false negative rate). Mean surgery times for placement of CVADs were 79.5 and 84.5 minutes for the study and control groups (p = NS). Mean radiation exposure rates were 0.16 and 0.86 minutes per patient for the study and control groups (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in device function between groups. Major complications in the study group were rare. Mean cost of CVAD placement was $1993 and $2517 for the study and control groups (p = 0.005), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of the electromagnetic detection system resulted in accurate placement of chest wall CVADs in the majority of patients. This resulted in significant reductions in radiation exposure and cost of CVAD placement.

Long-term, totally implantable central venous access ports connected to a Groshong catheter for chemotherapy of solid tumours: experience from 178 cases using a single type of device

The aim of this study was to examine the early and late complications rate of central venous access ports connected to the Groshong catheter for long-term chemotherapy delivering. All patients suffering from a neoplastic disease, who required long-term chemotherapy and underwent insertion of implantable ports during a 21-month period (1 October 1994-30 June 1996) were prospectively studied. A single type of port was used, constructed of titanium and silicone rubber (Dome Port, Bard Inc., Salt Lake City, U.S.A), connected to an 8 F silastic Groshong catheter tubing (Bard Inc.). A team of different operators (two general surgeons, one interventional radiologist and four anaesthesiologists) was involved in inserting the port. All devices were placed in the operating room under fluoroscopic control. A central venous access form was filled in by the operator after the procedure and all ports were followed prospectively for device-related and overall complications. Data from the follow-up of these patients were entered in the form and collected in a database. Follow-up continued until the device was removed, the patient died or the study was closed. 178 devices, comprising a total of 32,089 days in situ, were placed in 175 patients. Three patients received a second device after removal of the first. Adequate follow-up was obtained in all cases (median 180 days, range 4-559). 138 devices (77.5%) were still in situ when the study was closed. Early complications included six pneumothoraxes, three arterial punctures and two revisions for port and/or catheter malfunction (overall early complications in 8 patients). Late complications included 3 cases (1.68% of devices) of catheter rupture and embolisation (0.093 episodes/1000 days of use), 2 cases (1.12% of devices) of venous thrombosis (0.062 episodes/1000 days of use), 1 case (0.56% of devices) of pocket infection (0.031 episodes/1000 days of use), and 4 cases (2.24% of devices) of port-related bacteraemias (0.124 episodes/1000 days of use). Infections were caused by coagulase-negative Staphylococcus aureus (4 cases) and Bacillus subtilis (1 case); they required port removal in 3 out of 5 cases. This study represents the largest published series of patients with totally implantable access ports connected to Groshong catheters; this device is a good option for long-term access to central veins and delivery of chemotherapeutic regimens, including continuous intravenous infusions. The low incidence of major complications related to implantation and management of these devices support increased use in oncology patients.

Central venous catheter use in UKCCSG oncology centres. United Kingdom Children's Cancer Study Group and the Paediatric Oncology Nursing Forum

A cross sectional audit of central venous catheter (CVC) use was performed in United Kingdom Children's Cancer Study Group oncology centres. There were wide variations in choice of line, insertion technique, aftercare practice, and diagnosis of CVC related sepsis. These variations highlight the difficulty in interpretation of published data on CVC efficacy.

Complications of an implantable venous access device (Port-a-Cath) during intermittent continuous infusion of chemotherapy

In 149 patients, treated with intermittent continuous infusion of different chemotherapeutic agents, 169 Port-a-Caths were implanted by qualified surgeons and residents in training. The peri- and postoperative complications of implantation of the Port-a-Cath system and the complications during treatment were retrospectively analysed. The Port-a-Cath was in situ for a total of 36247 days (median 181, range 1-1332). Of the 169 catheters, major complications occurred during treatment, with infection in 4 patients (2.4%), occlusion in 3 (1.8%), thrombosis in 8 (4.7%), extravasation in 8 (4.7%) and migration in 3 (1.8%). The peri- and postoperative complication rate was low, although pneumothorax occurred in 6 patients (3.6%). In 25 patients (14.8%) the Port-a-Cath had to be explanted due to complications. It can be concluded that continuous infusion of chemotherapy via a Port-a-Cath system is a relatively safe procedure, although major complications do occur. The experience of the surgeon could not be related to the complications.

Bloodstream infections in home infusion patients: the influence of race and needleless intravascular access devices

OBJECTIVES

To determine the cause of increased central venous catheter-associated (CVC) bloodstream infection (BSI) rates in a cohort of pediatric hematology /oncology patients receiving home health care (HHC).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of hematology/oncology patients with CVCs receiving HHC from January 1992 through November 1994.

RESULTS

Of 182 patients with CVCs identified during the study period, 58 (32%) acquired 90 BSIs during 75,085 CVC days. BSI rates increased significantly from 1992 through 1994 (0.8 vs 1.0 vs 1.7 BSIs per 1000 CVC days; p < 0.005). Known risk factors, including catheter type, patient age less than 5 years, sex, or diagnosis, were not associated with increased BSI rates. After introduction of needleless devices for CVC access to the HHC regimen in May 1993, BSI rates increased 80% (from 0.81 to 1.46 BSIs/1000 CVC days, relative risk 1.8; p < 0.02). The only other significant risk factor was the race of the patient. White children had the lowest BSI rate before and after needleless-device introduction (0.4 vs 0.9 BSIs/1000 CVC days; p > 0.1), whereas black patients had the highest, unaffected by the introduction of these devices (2.5 BSIs/1000 CVC days). Both Hispanic (0.5 vs 1.6 BSIs/1000 CVC days) and Asian-American children's (0.4 vs 1.5 BSIs/1000 CVC days) BSI rates increased threefold and fourfold after the introduction of needleless devices.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that pediatric hematology/oncology patients receiving HHC via needleless devices may have an increased risk of BSIs, and this risk may vary by race. We hypothesize that prevention of BSIs may require consideration of cultural, ethnic, and language differences when parents are trained to provide care for their children with CVCs in the home.