Overview
The BD PowerPort (Becton Dickinson) is a totally implantable venous access device (TIVAD) designed for long-term intravenous access. It features a power-injectable reservoir capable of withstanding flow rates up to 5 ml/s, making it compatible with contrast-enhanced CT scanning — a critical advantage in oncology patients requiring both chemotherapy and regular imaging.
Indications
Long-term chemotherapy administration
Repeated blood sampling in chronic disease
Long-term antibiotic therapy (e.g., endocarditis, osteomyelitis)
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN)
Power injection of contrast for CT imaging
Specifications
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Port material | Titanium body with polysulfone reservoir |
| Catheter | 8 Fr polyurethane or silicone |
| Profile | Low-profile (12.2 mm height) and standard |
| Power injection | Up to 5 ml/s at 300 psi |
| Needle access | Non-coring Huber needle required |
| MRI conditional | Yes — 3T |
Key Features
Power injectable — CT-identifiable marker on the port confirms power-injection compatibility to radiographers
Low profile — suitable for patients with limited subcutaneous tissue
Palpable orientation markers — facilitate blind needle access
Single and dual lumen — dual lumen available for patients requiring simultaneous infusions
Insertion Technique
Ultrasound-guided puncture of the internal jugular vein (right preferred for straighter catheter course). The subclavian approach is an alternative but carries higher pneumothorax risk.
Create a subcutaneous pocket over the anterior chest wall (infraclavicular), typically 2–3 fingerbreadths below the clavicle.
Tunnel the catheter subcutaneously from the venotomy site to the pocket.
Position the catheter tip at the cavoatrial junction (CAJ) under fluoroscopic guidance — confirmed at the level of the carina or right tracheobronchial angle.
Secure the port in the pocket with sutures through the anchoring eyelets. Close in layers.
Confirm function by aspirating blood and flushing with heparinised saline through a Huber needle.
Post-procedure chest radiograph to confirm tip position and exclude pneumothorax.