An analysis of the outcomes of totally implantable access port implantation performed by surgical residents.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes after totally implantable access port (TIAP) implantation performed by general surgery residents in patients with colorectal cancer.

METHODS

A total of 291 consecutive patients who underwent TIAP implantations were evaluated. The patients were divided into three groups: second-, third-, and fourth-grade residents.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 22.1 months (range, 1-87 months). The total times of operation, puncture, and cannulation decreased as the resident grade increased (P<0.001). Early complications significantly decreased with higher resident grades (P=0.039). The non-use of ultrasonography and non-use of C-arm were identified as independent risk factors for complications. Resident grades between second and third (P=0.005) and between second and fourth (P=0.041) were identified as independent risk factors for optimal tip position.

CONCLUSION

TIAP implantation can be safely and effectively performed by residents. Low-grade residents were associated with early complications.