Portacath

Port-a-Cath

The Port-a-Cath (often referred to simply as "port") is a totally implantable venous access system (commonly abbreviated as TIVAS) that allows for the secure and repeated delivery of medications, nutrition, and other intravenous treatments directly into the bloodstream of patients. The device was originally developed by Smiths Medical MD, Inc., but the term has since become genericized to describe similar products from various manufacturers.

Uses

Port-a-Cath systems are implemented for a multitude of reasons:

• Administering total parenteral nutrition to patients who cannot consume adequate food orally over an extended period.
• Continual or frequent delivery of chemotherapy.
• Providing coagulation factors for patients with severe hemophilia.

The Port-a-Cath offers advantages over other venous access systems like the Hickman line and PICC line.

Principles

The Port-a-Cath device combines both a port and an intravascular device. During its placement:

• The intravascular device is typically inserted into a major vein such as the jugular vein or subclavian vein.
• This device is then tunneled beneath the skin of the chest wall where it is connected to a port.
• A subcutaneous chamber with a silicone membrane is created. This can be accessed externally by piercing the skin with a special needle, known as a Huber point needle.
• Due to the minute puncture size, multiple accesses can occur without damaging the skin or the port, making it a preferred method for long-term intravenous treatments.
• The device's unique construction minimizes infection risks, presenting a notable advantage over other types of indwelling lines.

Post-administration, a heparin lock is established by injecting heparin (an anticoagulant) into the catheter, ensuring prevention against clot formation within the system.

Side-effects

While the Port-a-Cath system is designed for safety and repeated use, there are potential risks:

• Infection: Although reduced, there's still a risk of infection.
• Hemorrhage: There's a possibility of bleeding during the device's insertion.
• Thrombosis: Blood clot formation might occur in the vein where the device's tip is positioned.

See also

• Intravenous therapy
• Central venous catheter

External links

• List of Port-a-Cath devices (Smiths-Medical.com)
• Video

Portacath Resources
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