Complications in connection with venous port systems: prevention and therapy

Post-operative difficulties apart, venous thrombosis, extravasation and dislocation, obstruction, catheter leakage and local and systemic infections are the typical complications associated with venous port systems. Such complications considerably reduce the benefits otherwise accruing from a reliable access to the venous system of patients with malignant tumours. The vast majority of such disadvantages are attributable to the inexpert handling of ports and, therefore, should be avoidable. This applies to such areas as selecting the right port system, the proper installation of the port chamber and catheter and also to efficient handling and maintenance by trained staff. In many cases it will be possible, with the help of a specific diagnostic investigation, to identify and correct a fault and thus ensure that the system installed continues to function. Typical and frequent complications observed (with specific examples) in connection with port systems are described together with preventative measures, diagnosis and therapy.