Central Venous Catheter with Subcutaneous Injection Port (Port-A-Cath): Clinical Experience with Children

Long-term intermittent venous access was established in 26 children by means of a central venous catheter (CVC) with a subcutaneous injection port (Port-A-Cath) (PAC). As of December, 1985, PACs had been in place for 20-750 days (cumulative 10,890 days) with 647 entries into the system. The PACs were used for blood sampling and administration of chemotherapy, antibiotics, fluids, total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and blood products. One patient with severe neutropenia (absolute neutrophil granulocyte count [ANC] < 0.1 × 109/L) at the time of the PAC implant developed an infection around the port after 2 days, with subsequent septicemia (Bacillus cereus) necessitating removal of the PAC. Otherwise, no definite PAC-related infections occurred, including 258 days of neutropenia (ANC < 0.5 × 109/L). Two PACs were found occluded with greyish deposits of fat and organic material after long-term (45 and 61 days) continuous TPN and were removed. Malposition of catheter, extravasation, thrombosis, and other potential technical or psychological complications were not observed. The children continued normal activities, and the easy venous access decreased emotional stress during treatment. Local doctors were trained to use the PACs, with which they administered maintenance chemotherapy. We conclude that the use of PACs in children is safe, even in the first year of life, and has many advantages when compared with other CVCs currently in use. Strict indications, meticulous implantation technique, and adequate handling are, however, mandatory.