Identification of catheter misplacement in early port CVC dysfunction

Abstract

The use of port central venous catheters (CVCs) for chemotherapeutical use has seen exponential growth over the last decades. However, port CVC misplacement may lead to catheter malfunction (such as partial or total catheter blockade), which might be complicated by thrombosis and catheter superinfections, and these in turn may lead to pulmonary embolism and bloodstream infections. The overall occurrence of port CVC misplacement is up to 6%; nonetheless, port CVC misplacement may occur in up to 67% of patients with early CVC dysfunction (occurring within three months of catheter insertion). Thereafter, the prompt evaluation of catheter position among patients with first-trimester CVC dysfunction is extremely important. The aim of the present manuscript is to support medical oncologists, haematologists, and clinicians in timely suspicion and recognition of port CVC misplacement among patients with early CVC dysfunction. Radiological educational iconographic materials that will assist a prompt estimate of port-CVC dislocation are provided.

Evaluation of the position of the central venous catheter tip of implantable venous access devices in the occurrence of postoperative thrombotic and non-thrombotic complications

“…However, the placement and the use of TIVADs are associated with short-term complications related to the surgical procedure and long-term complications related to their use over several years, respectively. The position of the catheter tip in the SVC or in the ACJ is one of the most important risk factors for these complications, particularly thrombosis and infection [13][14][15][16][17]. However, the optimal position of the catheter in the SVC and/or ACJ, as well as the best method to assess the correct position of the catheter, is still a topic of debate [5,13].…”