[Percutaneous implantation of port-catheter systems for intraarterial chemotherapy of the liver].
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to determine the usefulness, safety and acceptance of a new technique of percutaneous implantation of port-catheter-systems (PIPS) for locoregional intraarterial chemotherapy of the liver.


METHODS
In 50 patients with malignant hepatic disease, 52 percutaneously implantable port-catheter systems were implanted for intraarterial chemotherapy of the liver as an interventional radiological technique. A commercially available angiographic catheter was placed in the hepatic artery under fluoroscopic control via a transfemoral approach and connected to a Port-A-Cath situated in the groin. This procedure was done on an outpatient basis; no medical treatment was administered.


RESULTS
Percutaneous placement of the port-catheter system was successful in all cases, also in those with a hepatomesenteric trunk. No peri- and post-interventional complications occurred. The median patency was 312 days (13-547 days). The catheter-related complication rate was 12%. The function could be restored by replacement or an interventional procedure in all but one case (2%). Infection and leakage did not occur. The system had been withdrawn without complications in 7/52 cases for a variety of reasons (e.g. hemihepatectomy, desire of the patient or clinician, dissection after intervention, replacement).


CONCLUSIONS
Percutaneous placement of a port-catheter system is a safe and easy alternative to the surgical placement of port systems for hepatic intraarterial chemotherapy. Long-term complication rates are comparable. The option of easy withdrawal and interventional correction of dysfunction as well as lower costs are additional advantages.
Waggershauser
T
T
Institut für Klinische Radiologie, Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München.
Herrmann
K
K
Schalhorn
A
A
Reiser
M
M
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001650:Bile Duct Neoplasms / Q000098:blood supply / Q000188:drug therapy; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling; D018281:Cholangiocarcinoma / Q000098:blood supply / Q000188:drug therapy; D020878:Device Removal; D004867:Equipment Design; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D005260:Female; D006499:Hepatic Artery; D006801:Humans; D015918:Infusion Pumps, Implantable; D007261:Infusions, Intra-Arterial; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000098:blood supply / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000556:secondary; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged