The Laterality of Port Catheter Placement in Breast Cancer Patients: Investigating the Impact of Side Selection.

Abstract

Breast cancer, the most prevalent malignancy in women, has witnessed an increased incidence alongside the rising use of port catheters and chemotherapy. Despite the conventional practice of contralateral port placement, the impact of side selection on complications remains unclear, necessitating a nuanced investigation. This prospective cross-sectional study, conducted from 2021 to 2022, involved 100 females over 18 undergoing port catheter placements for breast cancer. Meticulous data collection included patient demographics, procedure details, and postoperative complications. Statistical analyses were employed to assess variables, and ethical principles were followed. Findings revealed no statistically significant differences in complication rates between ipsilateral and contralateral placements. The absence of infections, fractures, thrombosis, or catheter displacement underscored overall safety. Intriguingly, no discernible impact on breast cancer subtype distribution was observed, challenging conventional assumptions. This investigation into the laterality of port catheter placement in breast cancer patients yielded promising outcomes. The absence of significant complications and the negligible impact on cancer subtype distribution underscore the safety and efficacy of this intervention. However, individual patient characteristics and procedural nuances should guide decisions about port catheter placement, contributing valuable insights to optimize strategies for improved patient outcomes.