Journal Volume: 9
Journal Number: 3
Article Author: Meredith Lynch and Brent Burbridge, MD, FRCPC

Totally implanted venous access devices (TIVADs) are commonly used for patient care. They are
employed for infusion therapy for those with malignancies, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic
infections, and other clinical conditions that require management of fluid therapy.
TIVADs are at risk for complications related to inappropriate utilization and management. The
safe and appropriate use of an implanted venous access device is imperative to ensure longterm
utility of the device and minimization of complications.

Training in access and utilization of these devices will help improve their longevity and minimize
possible complications. Patient safety will be maximized if all those engaged in using TIVADs
are knowledgeable and competent. At present, there is no universal, standardized guideline, for
Canadian health care workers to refer to when questions arise pertaining to the most appropriate
port access and utilization techniques. We will discuss issues related to the management of
these devices, after implantation, with reference to available guidelines.