Permanent peritoneal ports for the management of recurrent malignant ascites: a retrospective review of safety and efficacy

Intern Med J. 2018 Dec;48(12):1524-1528. doi: 10.1111/imj.14137.

Abstract

Large volume paracentesis is effective in relieving the symptoms of malignant ascites, but frequent procedures are often required. Permanent peritoneal ports are an alternative to repeated procedures. We describe our experience with the use of peritoneal ports in patients at Middlemore Hospital (Auckland, New Zealand) who had a port inserted for the drainage of malignant ascites. Twenty-eight ports were inserted in 26 patients and accessed a total of 257 times with acceptably low rates of complications including cellulitis, peritonitis and wound dehiscence.

Keywords: ascites; drainage; palliative care; quality of life.

MeSH terms

  • Ascites / diagnosis
  • Ascites / etiology
  • Ascites / surgery
  • Ascitic Fluid / pathology
  • Catheters, Indwelling
  • Drainage / adverse effects
  • Drainage / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / complications
  • New Zealand
  • Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care
  • Paracentesis* / adverse effects
  • Paracentesis* / methods
  • Peritoneal Cavity* / diagnostic imaging
  • Peritoneal Cavity* / pathology
  • Peritoneal Cavity* / surgery
  • Postoperative Complications* / classification
  • Postoperative Complications* / diagnosis
  • Postoperative Complications* / therapy
  • Vascular Access Devices