Improved Vascular Access for Patients Receiving Chemotherapy

Abstract

Indwelling central venous catheters were used for vascular access in 25 oncology patients, The lines were used for sampling, administration of blood products, chemotherapeutic agents, parenteral nutrients and occasionally plasmapheresis. The complication rate was no higher than in reported series in which the catheters were reserved for parenteral nutrition. We believe that a central venous cannula can be safely used as the sole means of vascular access in those patients with consequent psychological and practical benefits.