F. Wesenberg et al., CENTRAL VENOUS CATHETER WITH SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION PORT (PORT-A-CATH) - 8 YEARS CLINICAL FOLLOW-UP WITH CHILDREN, Pediatric hematology and oncology, 10(3), 1993, pp. 233-239
Long-term intermittent venous access was established in 77 children by
means of a central venous catheter (CVC) with a subcutaneous injectio
n port (Port-A-Cath; PAC). Seventy of these children were included in
this follow-up study. Sixty-three were treated for different malignant
diseases, five for cystic fibrosis, one for severe hemophilia and one
for central nervous system disease with seizures as the main problem.
As of April, 1992, PACs had been in place for 3/12 to 8 3/12 years (c
umulative 175 5/12 years) with 2,206 entries into the system. The PACs
were used for blood sampling and administration of chemotherapy, anti
biotics, fluids, total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and blood products.
Portal infection was observed in four patients of which two patients h
ad their PAC removed. Catheter dislocation was observed in two and cat
heter breakage in one. Portal occlusion, extravasation, thrombosis lea
ding to removal of the PAC or other technical or psychological complic
ations were not observed. The children continued normal activities, an
d the easy venous access decreased emotional stress during treatment.
Local doctors were trained to use PACs, through which they administere
d maintenance chemotherapy. We conclude that long-time use of PACs in
children is safe and has many advantages compared to traditional CVCs
in use. Strict indications, meticulous implantation techniques and ade
quate handling are, however, mandatory.