Evaluation of catheter loops in central venous port systems.

OBJECTIVES

We sought to evaluate the cause for catheter loops of central venous ports.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 241 patients who received a central venous port via subclavian vein access were included in this retrospective study. Eighty of these patients had undergone a computed tomography of the chest, allowing retrospective evaluation of the course of central venous catheters. Complications were evaluated by review of the clinical data charts.

RESULTS

In 49 patients, the catheter penetrated only the major pectoralis muscle. Only one of these patients (2.0%) showed a loop. In 31 cases, the catheter went through both the major and minor pectoralis muscle, and in 26 of these patients (83.9%), a loop was seen. Complications after port implantation were catheter occlusion (n = 2), pneumothorax (n = 2), thrombosis (n = 2), infection (n = 1), and catheter dislocation (n = 1).

CONCLUSIONS

The loop of catheter of central venous ports is caused by catheter penetration through pectoralis major and minor.