From the Guidelines
A port is a type of central line, but not all central lines are ports. A port (also called a port-a-cath) is an implanted device consisting of a reservoir with a silicone septum that connects to a catheter inserted into a central vein, as described in the study by 1. Unlike other central lines that have external access points, a port is completely under the skin and requires a special needle (Huber needle) to access it. Other types of central lines include peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), tunneled catheters, and non-tunneled central venous catheters.
Key Characteristics of Central Lines
- Ports are typically used for patients needing long-term intermittent access for treatments like chemotherapy, blood draws, or medication administration.
- They offer advantages including reduced infection risk compared to external central lines, less maintenance when not in use, and greater patient comfort for long-term therapy.
- However, they require a surgical procedure for placement and removal, and specialized training for healthcare providers to access them properly, as noted in the study by 1.
Comparison of Central Lines
- The study by 1 found that implanted ports had the lowest incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) compared to other types of central lines.
- The study by 1 recommended the use of tunneled catheters and ports for medium-term central venous access, due to their lower risk of infection and other complications.
- The study by 1 provided guidelines for the choice of central venous catheter device, including the use of ports for long-term access.
Clinical Implications
- The use of ports and other central lines requires careful consideration of the patient's needs and the potential risks and benefits of each type of device.
- Healthcare providers should be aware of the different types of central lines and their characteristics, as well as the guidelines for their use, in order to provide optimal care for their patients, as recommended by 1.
From the Research
Definition of a Port and Central Line
- A port is a type of central venous access device, which is a catheter placed into a large vein in the neck, chest, or arm to deliver medication, nutrients, or fluids over a long period 2, 3.
- Central lines, also known as central venous catheters, are used to administer medications, fluids, or blood products directly into a large vein 4, 5.
Comparison of Ports and Central Lines
- Both ports and central lines are used for similar purposes, but they have different designs and insertion techniques 2, 4.
- Ports are typically implanted under the skin, while central lines are inserted through a vein and remain outside the body 3, 6.
- The risk of complications, such as thrombosis and infections, varies between ports and central lines 2, 4.
Classification of Ports as Central Lines
- Based on the studies, a port can be considered a type of central line, as it is a central venous access device used for similar purposes 2, 3, 6.
- However, the specific design and insertion technique of a port distinguish it from other types of central lines, such as peripherally inserted central catheters or central venous catheters 4, 5.