New Subcutaneous Injection Chamber Technique: Reducing the Risks of Skin Necrosis in Cancer Patients with Chemotherapy

The subcutaneous injection chamber technique is a valuable tool for cancer patients who are at risk of extravasation during chemotherapy. This technique reduces the risk of skin necrosis and limits the side effects of the drugs being used. Dr. II Luu Kinh Khuong, Head of the Department of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, explained that chemotherapy drugs are typically administered through external intravenous lines, which can damage peripheral blood vessels and increase the risk of extravasation due to vein deviation. This method can also limit the patient’s movement in the limb where the infusion vein is placed.

Extravasation due to chemotherapy is a common complication that can lead to irritation, ulcers, and skin necrosis. This is especially prevalent in elderly patients and those with weak vessel walls, obesity, edema, or skin lesions. To address this issue, healthcare providers place a subcutaneous injection chamber under the skin of the chest wall to support intravenous drug and nutrition infusion without the risk of complications associated with peripheral veins.

Patients who have had a subcutaneous injection chamber placed have reported increased convenience in their daily lives. The device allows for direct transmission of chemotherapy drugs to where they are needed without complications arising from peripheral vein administration. Additionally, it can be used for blood testing, fluid administration, and nutrition support for cancer patients who cannot consume orally.

The procedure for placing a subcutaneous injection chamber involves inserting a catheter into a central vein either through the neck or below the collarbone before placing it under the skin in the chest area and securing it for stability. Patients may experience mild redness and pain at the incision site but these symptoms usually subside within 24-48 hours after placement. It is essential for patients to avoid heavy lifting and certain activities following placement of device.

Overall, subcutaneous injection chambers have proven to be valuable tools in reducing extravasation during chemotherapy treatment while improving quality of life for cancer patients by reducing side effects caused by peripheral veins administration.

In conclusion, cancer treatment has become more efficient thanks to advancements such as subcutaneous injection chambers techniques that reduce risks associated with peripheral vein administration during chemotherapy treatment while improving patient’s quality of life by reducing side effects caused by peripheral veins administration.