A simple method to accurately position Port-A-Cath without the aid of intraoperative fluoroscopy or other localizing devices.
BACKGROUND
To evaluate the efficacy and acceptability of the Port-A-Cath (PAC) insertion method with (conventional group as II) and without (modified group as I) the aid of intraoperative fluoroscopy or other localizing devices.


METHODS
A total of 158 women with various kinds of gynecological cancers warranting PAC insertion (n = 86 in group I and n = 72 in group II, respectively) were evaluated. Data for analyses included patient age, main disease, dislocation site, surgical time, complications, and catheter outcome.


RESULTS
There was no statistical difference between the two groups in terms of age, main disease, complications, and the experiencing of patent catheters. However, appropriate positioning (100% in group I, and 82% in group II) in the superior vena cava (SVC) showed statistical differences between the two groups (P = 0.001). In addition, the surgical time in group I was statistically shorter than that in group II (P < 0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
The modified method for inserting the PAC offered the following benefits: including avoiding X-ray exposure for both the operator and the patient, defining the appropriate position in the SVC, and less surgical time.
Horng
Huann-Cheng
HC
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital and National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
Yuan
Chiou-Chung
CC
Chao
Kuan-Chong
KC
Cheng
Ming-Huei
MH
Wang
Peng-Hui
PH
D000772:Anesthesia, Local; D000779:Anesthetics, Local; D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards*; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000191:economics; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D004867:Equipment Design; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D005471:Fluoroscopy / Q000295:instrumentation; D005833:Genital Neoplasms, Female / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D007430:Intraoperative Care; D008012:Lidocaine; D008875:Middle Aged
D000779:Anesthetics, Local; D008012:Lidocaine