Risk factors for complications in cancer patients with totally implantable access ports: A retrospective study and review of the literature

Objectives To analyze the risk factors for complications associated with the use of totally implantable access ports (TIAPs) in cancer patients. Methods Data for 2,713 cancer patients who received a TIAP between January 2010 and September 2016 at a single center were analyzed retrospectively. Results The average age of the patients was 54.2 +/- 9.92 years, and 1,247 (47.5%) were women. The right subclavian vein was the preferred insertion site. Seventy-seven patients developed early complications and 50 developed late complications. The incidence of complications increased as the number of punctures increased. Percutaneous intervention increased the risk of complications during port insertion, but age, sex, body mass index, and the use of physiological saline solution instead of heparin for washing after port insertion did not increase the risk. The use of ultrasonography during insertion reduced the risk of complications. Conclusions Various factors may affect the function of TIAPs in cancer patients both during insertion and follow-up. Age, sex, body mass index, and the use of physiological saline solution for washing did not affect the incidence of complications, but the use of ultrasonography during insertion did affect the complication rate.