Complications after Totally Implantable Venous Port Catheter Intervention in Cancer Patients

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the complications associated with totally implantable venous port catheter interventions and the management of these complications. Methods: Between January 2011 and October 2020, we reviewed patients who had totally implantable venous port catheter interventions. A total of 543 catheters were inserted into cancer patients via the subclavian, jugular, or femoral vein. Demographic data, venous access, primary diagnosis, catheter-related complications, catheter duration of stay, and reasons for catheter removal were retrospectively analyzed. Results: The mean age of the patients was 53.6 years, with the sample consisting of 304 (55.98%) females and 239 (44.02%) males. The first three cancer diagnoses were breast cancer (35.72%), colon cancer (31.67%), and stomach cancer (12.89%). In most patients (72.37%), the right subclavian vein was used as the intervention site. Complications occurred in 8.8% (48 patients) of the patients in the early (1.28%) or late periods (6.8%) after the procedure. Catheter-related infection was the most common complication, at 2.5%. Conclusion: Some complications may occur during the insertion and use of totally implantable venous port catheters, although they are convenient for use in the treatment of patients undergoing chemotherapy. Given their long-term use in these patients, most of whom have metastatic cancer and are on immunosuppressive therapy, a careful approach during surgery and chemotherapy will reduce potential complications.