Assessment of Long-Term Complications in Adult Oncology Patients with Superior Vena Cava Syndrome Receiving Tunnelled Femoral Catheters: A Prospective Cross-sectional Study

Background Superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) is a critical condition that is often linked to malignancies and requires prolonged vascular access for therapeutic and palliative care. This prospective cohort analysis evaluated the long-term complications associated with tunneled femoral inserted central catheters (TFICCs) in adult oncology patients with SVCSs. Methods This is a prospective cross-sectional study and was performed at a major cancer centre in China. The study involved oncology patients with SVCSs requiring central venous access via the TFICC from March 2022 to June 2022. A total of 89 adult oncology patients with SVCS who received TFICC placement were enrolled. The primary outcomes were the rates of TFICC-related complications, such as dislodgment, occlusion, blood reflux, catheter-related skin injury, catheter-related thrombosis, and unplanned removal. The secondary outcomes included the identification of risk factors associated with these complications. Univariate and binary logistic regression analyses were used to assess risk factors for complications. Results Nearly half of the patients (n = 42/89, 47.2%) experienced significant complications related to TFICC, with dislodgment emerging as the most prevalent issue at an alarming rate of 23.6%. It’s crucial to note that only a mere 5 patients (56%) had their catheters removed due to complications. The use of Power PICC-SOLO catheters was identified as a significant risk factor for occlusion. An increased catheter length reduces the risk of dislodgment, whereas a longer indwelling time increases this risk. A larger thigh circumference was linked to a greater chance of blood reflux. Conclusion TFICC placement in adult oncology patients with SVCSs is associated with a significant rate of complications, particularly concerning dislodgment. POWER PICC-SOLO is associated with a greater risk of occlusion. Catheter length and indwelling time influence the risk of dislodgment, and thigh circumference is a risk factor for blood reflux. These findings have implications for patient selection, catheter choice, and management strategies to minimize complications. Trial registration This study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on 21/02/2022 (registration number: ChiCTR2200055864).