Retrospective outcome analysis of rates and types of complications after 8654 minimally invasive radiological port implantations via the subclavian vein without ultrasound guidance

Purpose: To evaluate the rate and types of complications after minimally invasive radiological central vein port implantation without ultrasound guidance. Materials and methods: We retrospectively evaluated 8654 patients who underwent port implantations in the subclavian vein without ultrasound guidance in our institution from 1998 to 2014 with regard to types and rates of peri-, early and late post-interventional complications according to the common classification for complications published by the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR). Additionally, the impact of the training level of the operators on the rate of complications was analyzed. Results: Successful port implantations were performed in 99.8% (8636/8654 procedures). From 1998 to 2014, a total of 565 (6.52%) complications were recorded. The overall percentage of the peri-, early and late post-interventional complications according to the SIR criteria was 1.69, 0.15 and 4.68, respectively. Significant differences due to the training level of the performing physician could be seen for the rates of pneumothorax, arterial puncture and hematoma. Conclusion: Minimally invasive radiological interventional port implantation is a safe treatment option with a low rate of complications even without ultrasound guidance.