Vascular access for intravenous chemotherapy: totally implanted systems.

This is a prospective study conducted in order to evaluate totally implanted venous access systems. The report concerning 42 patients is presented. The follow-up is 5 to 17 months (median 9 months). A variety of antineoplastic agents were administered through the device. Complications rarely occur and after utilization all patients are still treated in this way. Physician-, nurse- and patient-acceptance were excellent and this system appears to improve the quality of life style of cancer patients.