European journal of pediatric surgery : official journal of Austrian Association of Pediatric Surgery ... [et al] = Zeitschrift für Kinderchirurgie
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Comparative Study
Totally implantable central venous access devices in pediatric oncology--our experience in 46 patients.
Between 1986 and 1990, 50 venous access devices have been implanted in 45 children with various types of cancer and in one patient with Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Twenty-five devices were of the so-called "pediatric" type (Port-A-Cath: 24, Vascuport: 1) and 25 were "adult" ports (Port-A-Cath: 8, Vascuport: 6, Infuse-A-Port: 6, Theraport: 5). The catheters (in silicone elastomer or polyurethane) were inserted percutaneously or surgically. ⋯ Seven of the 11 complications, including all 3 port occlusions, were encountered with "pediatric" systems. All the adult access devices tested were safe and allowed long-standing access to the central venous system in this series of pediatric cancer patients. With proper placement technique and adequate nursing care, they represent a definite improvement in child cancer therapy.