A prospective randomized trial demonstrating valved implantable ports have fewer complications and lower overall cost than nonvalved implantable ports

Current port maintenance strategies are insufficient: View based on actual presentations of implanted ports

Nursing staff play a crucial role in maintaining a functional port. Nursing guidelines recommend standard maintenance with 10 ml irrigation without consideration for variations among patients and individual nursing staff. The aim of this study is to identify the efficacy of the current maintenance strategy and analyze the correlation between complications and actual port presentations, based on disassembled intravenous ports after removal from patients. We attempt to organize the information and propose a definite maintenance strategy.After treatment completion, or due to complications, 434 implanted intravenous ports were removed from patients. All ports were deconstructed to observe their actual presentations and were then analyzed in conjunction with medical records. The correlation between complications and actual presentations was analyzed.From March 2012 to December 2017, 434 implanted intravenous ports were removed from oncology patients after completion of treatment or catheter related complications. From the view of maintenance related presentations, injection chamber blood clot was highly correlated with chemotherapy completion (P < .001) and malfunction (P = .005), while tip blood clot (P = .043) was related with chemotherapy completion and catheter fibrin (P = .015) was related to malfunction. From the view of structure related presentations, broken catheter integrity was correlated to chemotherapy completion (P = .007), fracture (P < .001), and malfunction (P = .008). Compression groove was related to chemotherapy completion (P = .03) and broken catheter at protruding stud was related to fracture (P = .04), while diaphragm rupture was correlated to chemotherapy completion (P = .048) and malfunction. (P < .001).Current port maintenance is insufficient for ideal port maintenance, whereby maintenance-related presentations, including tip clot, catheter fibrin, and injection chamber blood clot were identified. We propose a recommended maintenance strategy based on our findings. Structure-related presentations, including broken catheter integrity, broken catheter at protruding stud and diaphragm rupture were seen in patients with longer implantation period. Removal of the implanted port may be considered after 5 years if no disease relapse is noted.

Implanted vascular access device options: a focused review on safety and outcomes

Implantable vascular access devices are frequently used in patients who have poor peripheral venous access. These devices can be partially implanted as tunneled and nontunneled central catheters, or they can be fully implanted as ports. Compared with long-term catheters, implanted ports have lower infection rates and improved perceptions of quality of life, but complications still occur in 2% to 18% of patients, frequently requiring removal of the device. Since the conception of implantable vascular access device ports, numerous advances in port design, materials, and techniques for implantation and care have been developed with the goal of overcoming frequent complications. We review the evidence related to these advances and their effect on the safety profile and complications of implantable vascular access device ports.

Experience in totally implantable venous port catheter: Analysis of 3,000 patients in 12 years

Background

This study aims to present our experience with patients who were performed totally implantable venous port catheter.

Methods

Demographics-clinical features, surgical results and complications of 3,000 patients (1,824 males, 1,176 females; mean age 61.04±11.5 years; range, 18 to 88 years) who were performed totally implantable venous port catheter between March 2005 and March 2017 were evaluated retrospectively. Totally implantable venous port catheter indications, complications, catheter duration of stay, reasons for catheter removal and statistical analysis information were reported in detail by reviewing patient records.

Results

Of the cases, the Seldinger method was used in 98%, 1% (n=36) had the catheter inserted with superficial Doppler ultrasonography, while the veins were not found in 1% (n=29) and these patients were excluded from the study. Totally implantable venous port catheter was inserted via right internal jugular vein in 2,095 patients (70%), via right subclavian vein in 470 patients (16%), via left internal jugular vein in 290 patients (10%), and via left subclavian vein in 106 patients (3%). Mean duration of stay for totally implantable venous port catheter was 46.7 months (range, 1 to 78 months). Complications were detected in a total of 288 patients (9.6%), 153 (5.1%) being early and 135 (4.5%) being late. The most common oncologic indication was colorectal cancer. The rate of port removal was 298/3,000 (9.9%) and the main reasons were infection, thrombosis, pain, and end of treatment. Totally implantable venous port catheter was required to be inserted twice in 33 patients (1%) and thrice in 14 patients (0.5%). Totally implantable venous port catheter had malposition in eight patients and all were revised successfully with over the guide method.

Conclusion

Totally implantable venous port catheter may increase the quality of life in cancer patients. Despite possible complications, totally implantable venous port catheter is safe and comfortable for long-term intravenous treatment. Possible complications may be prevented or managed when totally implantable venous port catheter is performed by surgeons with adequate experience.

A Novel Catheter System for Totally Implantable Intravenous Drug Therapy: Assessment of Catheter Function and Patency with Trepostinil Therapy

Background

Catheter failure, either due to dislodgment, occlusion or infection is the leading complication of chronic intravenous drug therapy. Better drug delivery techniques are required to advance life saving therapies that require this delivery method. This study evaluated the chronic performance of a fully implantable drug delivery system that incorporates a novel intravenous catheter. The system was designed to reduce complications associated with intravascular drug delivery including catheter occlusion, breakage, migration, and infection.

Methods

Twelve canines were implanted with a novel central venous catheter (Model 10642; Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN) connected to a totally implanted programmable drug pump (Model 8637 SynchroMed II®, Medtronic). The drug delivery systems infused saline (n=6) or treprostinil (n=6) (Remodulin®; United Therapeutics, Research Triangle Park, NC) for either 12 or 26 weeks at a continuous flow rate of 540 μL/day. Catheter performance was assessed at 0 (implant), 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 weeks by quantifying delivery pressure, delivery volume and steady state Treprostinil concentrations.

Results

All catheters remained patent and free of complications for the duration of the study. Analysis of pressure waveforms during bolus delivery showed low and unchanged catheter resistance throughout the study. Measurement of pump delivery volume accuracy showed that the delivered volume was statistically similar to the calculated delivery (product of flow rate and elapsed time). Measurement of plasma treprostinil levels showed stable concentrations over the study period. There were no catheter dislodgments or breakage. Pathology showed all catheters free from fibrosis and thrombus and minimal changes to the vascular endothelium.

Conclusions

The Model 10642 vascular catheter along with the SynchroMed II implantable drug delivery system showed promising performance in a chronic animal model.

Totally Implantable Ports Connected to Valved Catheters for Chemotherapy: Experience from 350 Groshong Devices

Purpose

There are few studies regarding the use of totally implantable valved ports for chemotherapy. The objective of this study was to analyze the results obtained from consecutive implantation of 350 devices.

Methods

Adult patients submitted to port insertion in veins of the superior vena cava system over a 17-month period (July 2006 to December 2007) were considered. The device used was composed of a titanium and silicone rubber port (Dome Port™; Bard Inc, Salt Lake City, UT) connected to an 8.0 Fr silastic Groshong™ catheter tube. Follow-up was conducted on outpatient data and during clinical readmissions, until the device was removed or the patient died.

Results

Three hundred and fifty devices, total of 74,691 days in situ, were inserted, with a median follow-up of 176 days. There were 11 early complications (3.1%) and 49 late complications (14%), 21 of these (6%) were considered major ones. Early complications comprised four instances of phlebitis of the external jugular, three of pocket infection, two of technical failure and two of ecchymosis. Late complications comprised 33 instances of withdrawal difficulty, 12 of port-related bacteremia, two of deep venous thrombosis, one of occlusion and one of catheter fracture. Out of the 350 catheters implanted, 258 (73.5%) were still being used, 73 (21%) remained in use until the patient died, five (1.5%) were removed at the end of the treatment and 14 (4%) were removed because of complications.

Conclusions

There was a low rate of major complications associated with this valved system justifying its use.

Long-term clinical outcomes of the single-incision technique for implantation of implantable venous access ports via the axillary vein

Purpose

To evaluate long-term clinical outcomes and complications of the single-incision technique for implantation of totally implantable venous access ports (TIVAPs) via the axillary vein.

Materials and Methods

A total of 932 TIVAPs were placed in 927 patients between May 2012 and October 2014 using a single-incision technique. Patients included 620 men and 307 women with a mean age of 60.0 years. TIVAPs were placed via the left (n = 475) and right (n = 457) axillary veins after making a single oblique vertical incision and medial side pocket without subcutaneous tunneling. We retrospectively reviewed medical records to evaluate status of the patients and TIVAPs, complications, and reasons for explantation. In patients who still had a TIVAP in place, we calculated the duration of TIVAP use from the cut-off day of November 1, 2015.

Results

Clinical follow-up was obtained for a total device service period of 311,069 days with a median indwelling time of 467 days (range: 3-1097 days). A total of 37 (4.0%) complications developed. Early complications (n = 4) were one case each of stenosis of the brachiocephalic vein by tumor growth, thrombosis of axillary vein, intravascular migration, and malfunction depending on patient's position. Late complications (n = 33) were suspected catheter-related blood stream infection (n = 23), local infection of the pocket (n = 4), symptomatic stenosis and thrombosis of central vein (n = 4), malfunction by fibrin sleeve (n = 1), and intravascular migration (n = 1).

Conclusions

A single-incision technique for TIVAP implantation via the axillary vein seems to be safe with a low risk of complication.

Twenty-five Years of Advances in Vascular Access: Bridging Research to Clinical Practice

Vascular access has become a key component for a multitude of IV therapies, including parenteral nutrition. Access of the central venous system has been long recognized for its associated complications of infection, thrombosis, and occlusion. Over the past 25 years, clinical practice based on research and innovation has attempted to decrease complication rates and therefore improve the safety of vascular access. This article highlights the research and its influence on catheter care procedures, technology, and education that has led to advances in vascular access. An improved understanding of the pathophysiology associated with catheter-related complications and an ongoing evaluation of new treatment modalities has provided clinicians today with new options for improved patient care and the ability to preserve vascular access options for patients.

Comparison of three types of central venous catheters in patients with malignant tumor receiving chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Central venous catheters (CVCs) have been an effective access for chemotherapy instead of peripherally intravenous catheters. There were limited studies on the choices and effects of different types of CVCs for chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to compare the complications, cost, and patients' quality of life and satisfaction of three commonly used CVCs for chemotherapy, such as implanted venous port, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), and external non-tunneled central venous catheters (NTCs).

METHODS

A double-center prospective cohort study was carried out from March 2014 to December 2016. Catheterization situation, complications, catheter maintenance, cost, and patients' quality of life and satisfaction were recorded, investigated, and analyzed. Forty-five ports, 60 PICCs and 40 NTCs were included. All the CVCs were followed up to catheter removal.

RESULTS

There was no statistical difference in catheterization success rates between port and PICC. NTC had less success rate by one puncture compared with port. Ports had fewer complications compared with PICCs and NTCs. The complication rates of ports, PICCs and NTCs were 2.2%, 40%, and 27.5%, respectively. If the chemotherapy process was <12 months, NTCs cost least, and the cost of port was much higher than PICC and NTC. When the duration time was longer than 12 months, the cost of port had no difference with the cost of PICC. Quality of life and patients' satisfaction of port group were significantly higher than the other two groups.

CONCLUSION

Although port catheterization costs more and needs professional medical staff and strict operational conditions, ports have fewer complications and higher quality of life and patients' satisfaction than PICCs and NTCs. Therefore, not following consideration of the economic factor, we recommend port as a safe and an effective chemotherapy access for cancer patients, especially for whom needing long chemotherapy process.

Performance of venous port catheter insertion by a general surgeon: a prospective study

As part of the vascular access procedures, venous ports, commonly referred to as catheters, are placed under the skin to enable safe and easy vascular access for administration of repeated drug treatments. 122 patients who had received a venous port catheter insertion procedure in the general surgery department between January 1012 and January 2014 were involved in this study. Patients were divided into two groups: those who had undergone a fluoroscopy (group 1) and those who had not undergone a fluoroscopy (group 2). Complications that emerged during and after the port catheter insertion procedure and successful insertion rates were recorded in the database. Data of these patients were presented in a prospective manner. There were 92 to 30 patients in groups 1 and 2, respectively. In group 1, the mean age was approximately 56.8, total catheter stay time was 20,631 days, and mean time of port use was 224.2 days. In group 2, the mean age was approximately 61.2, total catheter stay time was 13,575 days, and mean time of port use was 452.5 days. Successful insertion rate was 100% and 90% in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P < 0.05). The proper insertion of the port catheter accompanied by monitoring methods can decrease procedure-related complications. Statistical comparisons between the two groups in terms of malposition and successful insertion rates also support this view (P < 0.05). The findings support the view that in cancer patients, a venous port catheter insertion accompanied by a fluoroscopy can be safely performed by general surgeons.

Current situation regarding central venous port implantation procedures and complications: a questionnaire-based survey of 11,693 implantations in Japan

BACKGROUND

We conducted a nationwide questionnaire-based survey to understand the current situation regarding central venous port implantation in order to identify the ideal procedure.

METHODS

Questionnaire sheets concerning the number of implantation procedures and the incidence of complications for all procedures completed in 2012 were sent to 397 nationwide designated cancer care hospitals in Japan in June 2013. Venipuncture sites were categorized as chest, neck, upper arm, forearm, and others. Methods were categorized as landmark, cut-down, ultrasound-mark, real-time ultrasound guided, venography, and other groups.

RESULTS

We received 374 responses (11,693 procedures) from 153 centers (38.5 %). The overall complication rates were 7.4 % for the chest (598/8,097 cases); 6.8 % for the neck (157/2325); 5.2 % for the upper arm (54/1,033); 7.3 % for the forearm (9/124); and 6.1 % for the other groups (7/114). Compared to the chest group, only the upper arm group showed a significantly lower incidence of complications (P = 0.010), and multivariate logistic regression (odds ratio 0.69; 95 % confidence interval 0.51-0.91; P = 0.008) also showed similar findings. Real-time ultrasound-guided puncture was most commonly used in the upper arm group (83.8 %), followed by the neck (69.8 %), forearm (53.2 %), chest (41.8 %), and other groups (34.2 %).

CONCLUSION

Upper arm venipuncture with ultrasound guidance seems the most promising technique to prevent complications of central venous port implantation.

Morbidity-mortality conference for adverse events associated with totally implanted venous access for cancer chemotherapy

PURPOSE

Although considered safer than central venous catheters for administration of cancer chemotherapy, totally implanted venous access (TIVA) is associated with adverse events that may impair prognosis and quality of life of patients receiving chemotherapy. Our aim was to assess the feasibility and interest of surveillance of cancer chemotherapy TIVA-adverse events (AE), associated with morbidity-mortality conferences (MMCs) on TIVA-AE.

METHODS

We performed a prospective interventional study in two hospitals (a university hospital and a comprehensive care center). For each cancer chemotherapy care pathway within each hospital, we set up surveillance of TIVA-AE and MMC on these events. Patients included in surveillance were those with a TIVA either placed or used for chemotherapy cycles in one of the participating wards. Feasibility of MMC was assessed by the number of MMC meetings that actually took place and the number of participants at each meeting. The interest of MMC was assessed by the number of TIVA-AE identified and analyzed, and the number and type of improvement actions selected and actually implemented.

RESULTS

We recorded 0.41 adverse events per 1000 TIVA-day. MMCs were implemented in all care pathways, with sustained pluriprofessional attendance throughout the survey; 39 improvement actions were identified during meetings, and 18 were actually implemented.

CONCLUSIONS

Surveillance of TIVA-AE associated with MMC is feasible and helps change practices. It could be useful for improving care of patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy.

[Technical criteria of central venous catheters: Anaesthesiologist/intensivist and pharmacist opinions]

INTRODUCTION

The lack of technical information from suppliers and from the literature, a wide variety of features and the absence of medical device reference document explain the difficulty for medical and pharmaceutical staffs to choose a central venous catheter (CVC). The aim of this study was to establish the specifications to choose a CVC according to the clinician needs.

METHODS

An analysis of suppliers' technical documentation and a literature review was performed to identify criteria and to collect them in a questionnaire to conduct semi-structured interviews between 1 pharmacist and 5 anaesthesiologists/intensivists. With these interviews, the technical criteria were classified according to their importance in 3 levels.

RESULTS

Thirteen technical criteria were identified after reading the technical documents and the literature. Among them, 8 were classified as "essential criteria" (level I) by the physicians: J-shaped guide, one clamp on each way, identified lumen, radiopacity, graduation every centimeter by 5 to 20 cm from the distal extremity, a length of 15 to 25 cm, a single-lumen catheter with a 14 to 16G way and a three-lumen catheter with 14 to 18G way. Finally, three criteria were classified as "intermediate criteria" (level II) and two as "optional criteria" (level III).

CONCLUSIONS

This collaborative approach allowed to reference new medical devices according to the clinicians needs. These CVC are a mean to respect guidelines for physicians and nurses and to secure the patient's care.

Flushing and Locking of Venous Catheters: Available Evidence and Evidence Deficit

Flushing and locking of intravenous catheters are thought to be essential in the prevention of occlusion. The clinical sign of an occlusion is catheter malfunction and flushing is strongly recommended to ensure a well-functioning catheter. Therefore fluid dynamics, flushing techniques, and sufficient flushing volumes are important matters in adequate flushing in all catheter types. If a catheter is not in use, it is locked. For years, it has been thought that the catheter has to be filled with an anticoagulant to prevent catheter occlusion. Heparin has played a key role in locking venous catheters. However, the high number of risks associated with heparin forces us to look for alternatives. A long time ago, 0.9% sodium chloride was already introduced as locking solution in peripheral cannulas. More recently, a 0.9% sodium chloride lock has also been investigated in other types of catheters. Thrombolytic agents have also been studied as a locking solution because their antithrombotic effect was suggested as superior to heparin. Other catheter lock solutions focus on the anti-infective properties of the locks such as antibiotics and chelating agents. Still, the most effective locking solution will depend on the catheter type and the patient's condition.

Nurses' knowledge regarding the handling of the totally-implanted venous access device

In the light of nurses' questions regarding the handling of the totally-implanted venous access device, this study aimed to evaluate these professionals' knowledge. This is a descriptive study with a qualitative approach, whose sample was made up of 28 nurses working on the Internal Medicine ward and in the Emergency Room. The study was undertaken in two stages: interviewing, to evaluate knowledge regarding the handling of the implanted port; and an integrative review to clarify the doubts identified. The results indicated that the nurses' knowledge was inadequate regarding when to use the implanted port, its purpose, the puncture technique, maintenance and handling. It is concluded that the knowledge of the subjects evaluated is inadequate, and that it is necessary for these professionals' clinical skills to be standardized and for them to receive theoretical-practical training.

Variability in management of implantable ports in oncology outpatients

PURPOSE OF THE RESEARCH

To describe the variability in practice regarding the management of vascular access ports in adult oncology patients at Spanish outpatient clinics and to evaluate its compliance with the recommended procedural guidelines.

METHODS AND SAMPLE

Three e-mailings or three postal mail-outs were sent to all Spanish outpatient clinics, in accordance with the hospital's preference. An additional fourth postal mail-out was made to all units. In total 185 units at Spanish outpatient clinics out of a total 256 completed the survey questionnaire.

KEY RESULTS

A number of variations exist in the techniques used for insertion, withdrawal of needle from vascular access ports, blood sampling and unblocking procedure. There is considerable agreement in relation to the use of a special beveled needle, the use of gloves in the access and withdrawal procedures and checking of reservoir permeability by aspirating blood. In most cases, sterile gloves are used but there is a lesser occurrence of both scrubbed hands and correct antiseptic use.

CONCLUSIONS

There are considerable differences in the management of the vascular access ports in terms of the recommendations published in the main international guidelines, though these are based on low level evidence. The results highlight the need for further quality studies in ports use and manipulation to lessen the variability between published recommendations and clinical practice.

Central venous catheter care for the patient with cancer: American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical practice guideline

PURPOSE

To develop an evidence-based guideline on central venous catheter (CVC) care for patients with cancer that addresses catheter type, insertion site, and placement as well as prophylaxis and management of both catheter-related infection and thrombosis.

METHODS

A systematic search of MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library (1980 to July 2012) identified relevant articles published in English.

RESULTS

The overall quality of the randomized controlled trial evidence was rated as good. There is consistency among meta-analyses and guidelines compiled by other groups as well.

RECOMMENDATIONS

There is insufficient evidence to recommend one CVC type or insertion site; femoral catheterization should be avoided. CVC should be placed by well-trained providers, and the use of a CVC clinical care bundle is recommended. The use of antimicrobial/antiseptic-impregnated and/or heparin-impregnated CVCs is recommended to decrease the risk of catheter-related infections for short-term CVCs, particularly in high-risk groups; more research is needed. The prophylactic use of systemic antibiotics is not recommended before insertion. Data are not sufficient to recommend for or against routine use of antibiotic flush/lock therapy; more research is needed. Before starting antibiotic therapy, cultures should be obtained. Some life-threatening infections require immediate catheter removal, but most can be treated with antimicrobial therapy while the CVC remains in place. Routine flushing with saline is recommended. Prophylactic use of warfarin or low-molecular weight heparin is not recommended, although a tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) is recommended to restore patency to occluded catheters. CVC removal is recommended when the catheter is no longer needed or if there is a radiologically confirmed thrombosis that worsens despite anticoagulation therapy.

International clinical practice guidelines for the treatment and prophylaxis of thrombosis associated with central venous catheters in patients with cancer

BACKGROUND

Although long-term indwelling central venous catheters (CVCs) may lead to pulmonary embolism (PE) and loss of the CVC, there is lack of consensus on management of CVC-related thrombosis (CRT) in cancer patients and heterogeneity in clinical practices worldwide.

OBJECTIVES

To establish common international Good Clinical Practices Guidelines (GCPG) for the management of CRT in cancer patients.

METHODS

An international working group of experts was set up to develop GCPG according to an evidence-based medicine approach, using the GRADE system.

RESULTS

For the treatment of established CRT in cancer patients, we found no prospective randomized studies, two non-randomized prospective studies and one retrospective study examining the efficacy and safety of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) plus vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). One retrospective study evaluated the benefit of CVC removal and two small retrospective studies were on thrombolytic drugs. For the treatment of symptomatic CRT, anticoagulant treatment (AC) is recommended for a minimum of 3 months; in this setting, LMWHs are suggested. VKAs can also be used, in the absence of direct comparisons of these two types of anticoagulants in this setting [Guidance]. The CVC can be kept in place if it is functional, well-positioned and non-infected and there is good resolution under close surveillance; whether the CVC is kept or removed, no standard approach in terms of AC duration has been established [Guidance]. For the prophylaxis of CRT in cancer patients, we found six randomized studies investigating the efficacy and safety of VKA vs. placebo or no treatment, one on the efficacy and safety of unfractionnated heparin, six on the value of LMWH, one double-blind randomized and one non randomized study on thrombolytic drugs and six meta-analyses of AC and CVC thromboprophylaxis. Type of catheter (open-ended like the Hickman(®) catheter vs. closed-ended catheter with a valve like the Groshong(®) catheter), its position (above, below or at the junction of the superior vena cava and the right atrium) and method of placement may influence the onset of CRT on the basis of six retrospective trials, four prospective non-randomized trials, three randomized trials and one meta-analysis. In light of these data: use of AC for routine prophylaxis of CRT is not recommended [1A]; a CVC should be inserted on the right side, in the jugular vein, and distal extremity of the CVC should be located at the junction of the superior vena cava and the right atrium [1A].

CONCLUSION

Dissemination and implementation of these international GCPG for the prevention and treatment of CRT in cancer patients at each national level is a major public health priority, needing worldwide collaboration.

Epidemiology and prevention of catheter-related thrombosis in patients with cancer

Central venous catheters are extensively used in patients with cancer to secure delivery of chemotherapy and facilitate phlebotomy. Unfortunately, considerable morbidity can result from early complications or late sequelae, ranging from arterial puncture, pneumothorax and bloodstream infections to catheter-related thrombosis (CRT). Contemporary studies have shown that the incidence of symptomatic CRT is ∼5%, whereas the incidence of asymptomatic CRT is higher, at 14-18%. The significance and mechanisms of catheter design, material, insertion location and technique, position of the catheter tip and other risk factors in contributing to the development of CRT are not well understood. Efforts to reduce thrombotic complications, involving flushing the catheter with heparinized solutions, the use of heparin-bonded catheters, and systemic anticoagulant prophylaxis, have been largely ineffective. More studies are needed to understand the pathophysiology of thrombotic complications, to help identify effective interventions to reduce this adverse outcome.

The role of antibiotic prophylaxis in totally implantable venous access device placement: results of a single-center prospective randomized trial

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated whether prophylactic treatment with a cefazolin could prevent infections in patients who had a surgically inserted totally implantable venous access device (TIVAD).

METHODS

We conducted a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial comparing wound infection rates in 404 patients (203 received prophylactic cefazolin, 201 received a placebo) undergoing TIVAD insertion. Infections were evaluated 3, 7, 14, and 30 days after discharge and outcomes were compared and analyzed.

RESULTS

Groups were well matched for all preoperative variables studied, including comorbid conditions. Superficial surgical site infection developed in 5 patients (2.5%) from the antibiotic group and 6 (3%) from the placebo group (P = .75). One from each group developed deep surgical site infection. Both patients were readmitted and underwent repeated debridement, which eventually resulted in port loss in 1 patient.

CONCLUSIONS

We do not recommend the use of prophylactic antibiotics in TIVAD insertion because they will not decrease the already low rate of postoperative infectious complications. Registration number NCT00867295 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Frequent Accesses to Totally Implanted Vascular Ports in Pediatric Oncology Patients are Associated with Higher Infection Rates

Purpose

Totally implanted vascular (TIVA) ports are used in children for repeated blood samples or intravenous treatments. We have recently published a prospective evaluation of surgical incidents and early complications associated with these devices. This work is the final part of the same study, assessing late complications over a follow-up of 2 yrs.

Methods

From January 2006 to January 2008, children older than 1 yr of age with a diagnosis of solid or blood cell malignancy were included. Insertion technique and care of the device were standardized. Every manipulation was prospectively recorded by specialized nurses. Obstruction was documented clinically. When bacteremia was suspected, routine central and peripheral blood cultures were drawn.

Results

Forty-five consecutive patients were enrolled in the study. Mean age at the time of the procedure was 8.5 yrs. There was no catheter-related infection within the first 4 weeks post-surgery. No device had to be removed because of infection or obstruction during follow-up. Frequent accesses to the port (≥3 per day over a 10–day period) were associated with an 8–fold risk of infection.

Conclusion

Insertion and use of TIVA devices were frequently associated with complications. No device had to be removed because of infection or obstruction over the follow-up period, although no prophylactic antibiotic agent was used. Restrictive use of antibiotics may prevent opportunistic infection. Frequent access to the device was significantly associated with line infection (odds ratio=8.43). No risk factor was identified for obstruction which occurred at a rate of 5.3 per 10,000 accesses.

Totally implantable port management: impact of positive pressure during needle withdrawal on catheter tip occlusion (an experimental study)

BACKGROUND

Totally implanted ports (TIP) have become a standard part of patient care, providing long-term central venous access for treatment administration and other procedures. Despite overall the safety and effectiveness of TIP, complications still occur. Negative pressure created during needle withdrawal induces blood reflux and subsequent catheter occlusion. Application of positive pressure during needle withdrawal is thought to largely prevent such reflux, but supporting data are limited.

PURPOSE OF RESEARCH

To quantify the role of positive pressure, using a test model designed to simulate physiological conditions.

METHODS

Reflux associated with needle withdrawal with and without applied positive pressure was tested using various TIP models from different manufacturers mounted on a specially designed test bench. In addition to the presence or absence of positive pressure during needle withdrawal, study variables comprised of needle type (safety and standard), needle gauge and port septum diameter.

RESULTS

Application of positive pressure during needle withdrawal reduced the incidence of reflux during needle withdrawal by nearly 80% (22% vs. 99%, p<0.001). When reflux did occur, the mean residual volume was half that observed without positive pressure. In the absence of positive pressure, mean reflux increased with septum diameter and needle gauge to a statistically significant extent. None of these variables significantly affected reflux in the context of needle withdrawal under positive pressure.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study support the use of positive pressure during needle withdrawal to prevent blood reflux potentially leading to catheter tip occlusion.

Increased use of percutaneous technique for totally implantable venous access devices. Is it real progress? A 27-year comprehensive review on early complications

BACKGROUND

First implantation of a totally implantable venous access device (TIVAD) was performed in 1982 with surgical technique. Since then, these devices have permitted infusion of total parenteral nutrition, antibiotics, blood products, and, above all, they have definitively changed the quality of life of patients with cancer. However, with the increase of percutaneous procedures, we have assisted with a concomitant raise of immediate postprocedural life-threatening complications. The aim of this study was to review the literature during a 27-year period, with regard to the changes of incidence of immediate complications after percutaneous or surgical cutdown for TIVAD's implant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An extensive search of relevant literature was carried out by using MEDLINE (PubMed) and Google Scholar. We gathered articles from 1982 to 2009 that quoted patient's number, type of pathology, specialist involved, number of devices implanted, site and technique of implantation (surgical cutdown or percutaneous technique), and immediate complications occurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 952 reports were screened, and finally only 45 articles addressing all inclusion criteria were used for the present study. A total of 11,430 TIVADs implanted in 11,381 patients were analyzed. Pneumothorax, hemothorax, arterial puncture, and hemoptysis developed only after percutaneous procedures. Atrial fibrillation, hematomas, and malpositioning were more frequent after percutaneous approach. The total amount of immediate complications in patients submitted to percutaneous implant was 4.5%, compared with 0.9% subsequent to cutdown technique.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the increased use of percutaneous technique for TIVADs' implantation, surgical cutdown, because of its safety, remains the best approach to avoid possible fatal immediate complications.

2008 SOR guidelines for the prevention and treatment of thrombosis associated with central venous catheters in patients with cancer: report from the working group

BACKGROUND

In view of the lack of recommendations on central venous catheter (CVC)-associated thrombosis in cancer patients, we established guidelines according to the well-standardized Standards, Options and Recommendations methodology.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A literature review (1990-2007) on CVC-associated thrombosis was carried out. The guidelines were developed on the basis of the corresponding levels of evidence derived from analysis of the 36 of 175 publications selected. They were then peer reviewed by 65 independent experts.

RESULTS

For the prevention of CVC-associated thrombosis, the distal tip of the CVC should be placed at the junction between the superior cava vein and right atrium; anticoagulants are not recommended. Treatment of CVC-associated thrombosis should be based on the prolonged use of low-molecular weight heparins. Maintenance of the catheter is justified if it is mandatory, functional, in the right position, and not infected, with a favorable clinical evolution under close monitoring; anticoagulant treatment should then be continued as long as the catheter is present.

CONCLUSIONS

Several rigorous studies do not support the use of anticoagulants for the prevention of CVC-associated thrombosis. Treatment of CVC-associated thrombosis relies on the same principles as those applied in the treatment of established thrombosis in cancer patients.

Incidents and complications of totally implanted vascular access devices in children: a prospective study

Background

Totally implanted vascular access devices are frequently used in children for repeated blood samples or intravenous treatments. This prospective study aims at identifying the risk factors associated with infections, obstructions and surgical complications of these devices in pediatric patients.

Methods

From January 2006 to January 2008, all children older than one year of age with a diagnosis of solid or blood cell malignancy were included in the study. Insertion was performed by the surgeon according to a standardized protocol after landmark-guided puncture of the subclavian or internal jugular vein by a senior anesthesiologist. Dressing and post-operative care were standardized. Every manipulation was prospectively recorded by specialized dedicated nurses, and all patients were screened for complications one month post-surgery.

Results

45 consecutive patients 1 to 16 years old were enrolled in the study. Mean age at the time of procedure was 8.5 years (range 1.3–15.6; SD ± 4.88). There were 12 peroperative adverse events in 45 procedures (27%), detailed as follows: 3 pneumothoraces (7%), 3 hematomas (7%), 6 arterial punctures (13%). Among these events, intervention was necessary for two pneumothorax and one arterial puncture. There was no air embolism. At one month, we recorded 5 post-operative complications (11%): 2 thrombotic obstructions, one unsightly scar, and one scapular pain of unknown etiology. One patient needed repositioning of the catheter. There was no catheter-related infection.

Conclusion

Prospective recording of TIVA insertion in children reveals a significant number of early incidents and complications, mainly associated with the percutaneous puncture technique. We found no infection in this series. Results of a longer follow-up in the same population are pending.

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

Increased incidence of cancers and the development of totally implanted venous access devices that contain their own port to deliver chemotherapy will lead to a greater than before numbers of central venous catheter-related thrombosis (CVCT). Medical consequences include catheter dysfunction and pulmonary embolism. Vessel injury caused by the procedure of CVC insertion is the most important risk factor for development of CVCT. This event could cause the formation of a fresh thrombus, which is reversible in the large majority of patients. In some cases, thrombus formation is not related to catheter insertion. The incidence of CVC-related DVT assessed by venography has been reported to vary from 30 to 60% but catheter-related DVT in adult patients is symptomatic in only 5% of cases. The majority of patients with CVC-related DVT is asymptomatic or has nonspecific symptoms: arm or neck swelling or pain, distal paresthesias, headache, congestion of subcutaneous collateral veins. In the case of clinical suspicion of CVC-related deep venous thrombosis (DVT), compressive ultrasonography (US), especially with doppler and color imaging, currently is first used to confirm the diagnosis. Consequently, contrast venography is reserved for clinical trials and difficult diagnostic situations. There is no consensus on the optimal management of patients with CVC-related DVT. Treatment of CVC-related VTE requires a five- to seven-day course of adjusted-dose unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) followed by oral anticoagulants. Long-term LMWH that has been shown to be more effective than oral anticoagulant in cancer patients with lower limb DVT, could be used in these patients. The efficacy and safety of pharmacologic prophylaxis for CVC related thrombosis is not established and the last recommendations suggest that clinicians not routinely use prophylaxis to try to prevent thrombosis related to long-term indwelling CVCs in cancer patients. Additional studies performed in high risk populations with appropriate dosage and timing will help to define which patients could benefit from prophylaxis.

Subklaviathrombose nach Portanlage bei metastasiertem Melanom

The use of implanted central venous catheters with ports has become almost irreplaceable in clinical treatment of cancer patients with advanced disease. It improves the patient's quality of life and simplifies medical treatment. For safe use during outpatient follow-up treatment, possible complications such as wound infections, thrombosis or even pulmonary embolism have to be considered. The incidence of catheter-associated thrombosis in cancer patients has been estimated as 25-66% in screening evaluations. Clinical symptoms were present in only in 6-28% of all patients with diagnosed thromboses. We report on a patient with metastatic malignant melanoma, who developed a deep arm vein thrombosis two weeks after port implantation. The prognosis of deep arm vein thrombosis is determined by the development of pulmonary embolism (8-36%). In such cases, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the patient's survival.