Totally implantable vascular access device (TIVAD) placement: a modified technique that takes post-procedure aesthetic aspects into account

Support Care Cancer. 2017 Apr;25(4):1137-1140. doi: 10.1007/s00520-016-3503-9. Epub 2016 Nov 25.

Abstract

Major progress has been made in breast cancer reconstruction surgery. The standard technique for totally implanted vascular access device (TIVAD) implantation generally requires an incision for port insertion on the anterior part of the thorax that leaves a scar in the middle of the neckline in patients who have undergone mastectomy with complex breast reconstruction. The aim of this technical note is to report our revised surgical technique for TIVAD placement. In patients with breast cancer, we take a lateralized approach, performing an oblique incision on the lowest part of the deltopectoral groove. This allows us to introduce the port and to place it on the anterolateral part of the thorax, thus avoiding an unaesthetic scar on the anterior part of the thorax. Our modified technique for TIVAD implantation is described.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Cosmesis; Satisfaction; TIVAD.

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Catheterization, Central Venous / instrumentation*
  • Catheterization, Central Venous / methods
  • Catheters, Indwelling
  • Cicatrix
  • Esthetics
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mammaplasty / instrumentation*
  • Mammaplasty / methods
  • Surgical Wound / prevention & control
  • Vascular Access Devices*