Implantation of central venous ports with catheter insertion via the right internal jugular vein in oncology patients—single center experience

Abstract

Evaluation of suitability and safety of venous port implantation with catheter insertion via the right internal jugular vein in oncology patients. One hundred one totally implantable venous ports were placed in 100 patients with malignancies from January 1, 2003 until March 31, 2005. Catheter of venous port was preferably inserted via the right internal jugular vein. We recorded a number of successful implantations using this venous approach and the rate of complications during the procedure and follow-up. Ninety-seven catheters (96%) of totally implantable venous ports were inserted via the right internal jugular vein in 96 patients, and only in four cases were we not able to access this vein. We had no complications related to catheter insertion via the right internal jugular vein. Follow-up was made in all 96 patients with a total access days of 41 in 151 days (mean: 407 days). Premature catheter removal was required in six (6.2%, 0.144 per 1,000 access days) due to complications: three catheter dislocations/malfunctions (3.1%, 0.072 per 1,000 access days), one port-related sepsis, one pocket port infection, and one decubitus over port (1%, 0.024 per 1,000 access days). Six venous ports were removed after completion of the treatment at the patient’s request. The placement of totally implantable venous ports with catheter insertion via the right internal jugular vein has a high success rate without any early complications. Follow-up also demonstrates a low incidence of late complications requiring port removal.