PAS-Port: a new implantable vascular access device for arm placement: experiences from the first two years.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the performance of a new subcutaneous infusion port for placement in the arm.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.

SUBJECTS

85 of 90 consecutive patients referred for implantation of a subcutaneous infusion port. Five records were missing. Implantation was successful in 81 cases (95%).

INTERVENTIONS

Implantation of a PAS-Port (Kabi Pharmacia Deltec) subcutaneously on the forearm. Vascular access was obtained by cut-down.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Success rate, complications and reliability in routine use.

RESULTS

After a follow-up time of 1-24 months (median 5), 42 ports were still in use, 21 patients had died with functioning ports, two ports had been removed at the end of treatment, 11 had been removed because of complications and because they malfunctioned; and 3 patients were lost to follow-up. The overall infection rate was 0.08/100 catheter days.

CONCLUSIONS

PAS-Port is a safe alternative to chest-placed port systems where there is a need for long term vascular access in adult patients.