Ultrasound-guided totally implantable venous access ports placement via
right brachiocephalic vein in pediatric population: a clinical debut
Abstract
Background and objectives: To investigate the feasibility and safety of
ultrasound-guided totally implantable venous access ports (TIVAPs) via
the right brachiocephalic vein (BCV) in pediatric patients. Methods: A
single institutional retrospective review was performed on 35 pediatric
patients with hematological malignancies who underwent TIVAPs
implantation via ultrasound-guided right BCV approach from July 2018 to
June 2021. Technical success rate, procedural information and TIVAP
related complications were evaluated. Results: All the pediatric TIVAP
devices were successfully implanted via right BCV access. Venous access
was successful by first attempt in 32 children (91.42%); two cases
(5.71%) required a second attempt; one patient (2.86%) required a
third attempt. The mean procedural time was 44.63 ± 6.41 mins (range,
34-62 mins). No intraoperative complications occurred. The average TIVAP
indwelling time was 563.51 ± 208.47 days (range, 193-1014 days) with a
cumulative 19,723 catheter-days. The incidence of postoperative
complications was 11.43% (4/35), corresponding to a rate of 0.20
complications per 1000 catheter-days. Two cases of local hematoma and
two catheter dysfunctions occurred in three patients. No other
complications such as wound dehiscence, delayed incision healing,
catheter-related thrombosis (CRT), catheter malposition/fracture,
surgical site infection, catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI),
pinch-off syndrome and drug extravasation were observed during
follow-up. Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided right BCV access for TIVAPs
placement in pediatric patients appears to be technically feasible, safe
and effective. Further large-sample, prospective studies are warranted.