An Alternative Placement of Implantable Central Venous Access Systems

A modified technique of inserting an implantable venous access system in the inferior epigastric vein is described. This route can be used in cases where the jugular or subclavian veins are unsuitable. After exposure of the inferior epigastric vein in the lower part of the rectus sheath, the catheter is placed in the vein with its tip at the junction to the iliac vein, with the aid of fluoroscopy and x-ray contrast. Protrusion of the tip into the lumen of the iliac vein is avoided. The technique was successful in four of the five patients where an attempt was made to insert the catheter. In the fifth case the vein was too narrow to allow catheterization. In the four cases where the catheter was successfully inserted there were no complications. This technique may allow use of the inferior vena cava for venous access without the high risk of intravenous thrombosis which is inherent with current methods.