Superior vena cava obstruction due to total implantable venous access devices in cystic fibrosis: Case series and review

Abstract

As the life expectancy of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) improves, treatment related morbidity is increasingly recognised. Totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs) offer reliable long term central venous access but are associated with recognised complications including venous thrombosis. Superior vena cava obstruction (SVCO) however has been rarely reported in this setting. We report a single CF centre’s experience of SVCO associated with TIVADs in patients with CF, followed by a review of the published literature on risk factors, preventative strategies and treatment approaches.