Radiologic placement of venous access ports

Venous access ports are devices placed subcutaneously for long-term central venous access and that are accessed percutaneously for infusing medications. Use of ports in patient management has increased in recent years. Traditionally, these devices were placed by surgeons; however, radiologists are becoming involved more often in providing venous access services. This article reviews port construction and analyzes some of the commercially available options. A step-by-step technique of port placement under radiological guidance is discussed. Possible technical difficulties and suggestions to overcome them are presented. Finally, complications encountered in port placement are addressed in detail.