Chemoport Fracture due to Catheter Pinch Off Syndrome: A Rare Complication of Subclavian Vein Approach Revisited

Abstract

Chemoports are routinely used for administering chemotherapeutic agents, drugs, blood, and blood products. Chemoport insertion is associated with inherent complications. Fracture of chemoport due to pinch off syndrome is a rare life-threatening complication. We report our experience of fracture chemoport in patients with carcinoma breast and its management. We also present a detailed review of literature about this complication, clinical features, warning signs, diagnostic workup, management, and prevention. From a prospectively maintained database of chemoport insertion patients, a retrospective analysis was done from 2017 to 2020. During this period, the incidence of fracture chemoport was evaluated and their management. Out of 560 chemoport insertions, there were 3 patients with chemoport fracture, with an incidence of 0.5%. All the three patients were hemodynamically stable, with no clinical signs of pulmonary embolism. The chemoports were non-functional and on radiologic evaluation fracture of chemoport with embolization of distal segment was demonstrated. All the patients were managed by retrieval of the embolized catheters by a snare and removal of port chambers under local anesthesia. Choose internal jugular vein over subclavian vein for placing central venous access devices. When subclavian vein is chosen, point of entry should be lateral part of costochondral space. The incidence of chemoport fractures is 0.5% which present as non-functioning chemoports. Identify pinch off sign, especially with an upright check X-ray after chemoport placement. Consider repositioning of chemoport if pinch off sign is present.