Hydrothorax following delayed extravascular migration of a totally implantable venous access device in a child

Abstract

Totally implantable venous access devices are widely used in pediatric oncology. The authors encountered a 10-year-old boy with implantation of the device at the age of 7 years owing to acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In the recent half-year, the device was not used except for regular heparin flushing. However, hydrothorax occurred when fluid therapy was required from the device during this admission. Thoracoscopic approach showed extravascular migration and intrapleural malposition of the catheter. Intrapleural migration of the extravascular portion of the catheter owing to irritation and pressure necrosis of the pleura and gradual shortening of intravascular portion of the catheter when the child grew up may be the pathogenesis of delayed extravascular migration of the catheter.