Pediatric hematology and oncology
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Pediatr Hematol Oncol · Jul 1993
Central venous catheter with subcutaneous injection port (Port-A-Cath): 8 years clinical follow up with children.
Long-term intermittent venous access was established in 77 children by means of a central venous catheter (CVC) with a subcutaneous injection port (Port-A-Cath; PAC). Seventy of these children were included in this follow-up study. Sixty-three were treated for different malignant diseases, five for cystic fibrosis, one for severe hemophilia and one for central nervous system disease with seizures as the main problem. ⋯ Local doctors were trained to use PACs, through which they administered maintenance chemotherapy. We conclude that long-time use of PACs in children is safe and has many advantages compared to traditional CVCs in use. Strict indications, meticulous implantation techniques and adequate handling are, however, mandatory.