Subcutaneous Chest Port Infection

Implantable venous access devices or ports are generally used for long-term intermittent central venous access such as for administration of chemotherapy. When they are placed by radiologists, procedural complications are quite rare. Infection is less common in ports than in other central venous catheters because the device is buried under the skin. Nonetheless, infections do occur and are the most common complication necessitating port removal. Approximately 5% of patients require port excision because of infection.

SUGGESTED READINGS

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• 4 Simpson K R. Management of port infections.  J Vasc Interv Radiol. 1997;  8 591-593