Arm pain due to subcutaneous infusion port complication

Abstract

Subcutaneous infusion port represents a promising new method of central venous access, especially suited for chemotherapy antibiotic treatment, and parenteral nutrition. The implantation of subcutaneous infusion port was performed using basilic vein. There was a pain on the proximal part of the forearm 11 months after application of the implant. The arm pain observed in our case was thought to be the result of injection to an occluded catheter, which is curved inside damaging the vessel wall. Catheter occlusion is a delayed complication and related to blood aspiration, catheter malfunction and infusion of cytostatic drugs. We discuss reasons for arm pain in our patient by checking literature. © 2006 VSP.