Use of a Port-a-Cath system in the home setting for the treatment of symptomatic recurrent malignant pleural effusion

Eur J Cancer Care (Engl). 2005 May;14(2):182-4. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2354.2005.00568.x.

Abstract

Symptomatic malignant pleural effusions represent a common problem in metastatic cancers and are associated with a significant morbidity. Pleurodesis still remains the primary therapy of choice. In a few cases, however, pleurodesis is unsuccessful because of a limited lung expansion and pleuroperitoneal shunts have been used. We describe two cases where an implantable PORT-A-CATH system is used for regular drainage of the pleural effusion. The main advantage of this technique is the fact that the procedure of drainage can be performed by a nurse in the home setting.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Catheters, Indwelling*
  • Drainage / instrumentation
  • Drainage / methods
  • Home Care Services*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pleural Effusion, Malignant / nursing
  • Pleural Effusion, Malignant / therapy*
  • Pleural Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Pleural Neoplasms / therapy
  • Radiography
  • Recurrence