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 subcuta neous venous access ports. Each type of device has its advantages and disad vantages, 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 complicatio ns are rare. The use of VADs impregnated with antibiotic reduces the rates of catheter colonization and catheter-related bloodstream infections as com pared with the use of unimpregnated catheters for short-term use. Thrombosi s remains a major complication of VADs, and prospective, controlled studies are needed to clearly define the risk factors, natural history, and optima l treatment of this complication. Curr Opin Oncol 2000, 12:303-307 (C) 2000 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.