Smiths Medical introduces new implantable ports with CT identifiers

Jan 5 2011

Smiths Medical, a leading global medical devices manufacturer, announced today that they have launched new implantable ports with CT identifiers for easy viewing using X-rays or CT scout scans. The implantable ports facilitate quick acknowledgement that the ports can be used for power injection of contrast media.

The PORT-A-CATH^® and P.A.S. PORT^® POWER P.A.C. implantable access systems now include an easy-to-see CT identifier on the top of each port. Unlike other ports where the C and T letters are located on the bottom of the portal, and often have to be read backwards under scout scans, PORT-A-CATH^® and P.A.S. PORT^® POWER P.A.C. systems contain a radiopaque CT identifier that is embedded into the top of the port septum for easy, normal viewing.

Implantable access systems provide a route of delivery for patients requiring long-term medication therapy such as chemotherapy. The portal is implanted under the skin and connected to a catheter that is threaded into a vein. Power injecting may be performed when a patient requires a Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) scan for diagnostic purposes. The power injection procedure requires use of an implantable port, such as the PORT-A-CATH^®, PORT-A-CATH^® II or P.A.S. PORT^® T2 POWER P.A.C. implantable access systems, that can withstand higher pressure and faster flow rates than standard medication infusions.

"Smiths Medical has millions of PORT-A-CATH^® and P.A.S. PORT^® systems implanted and in use today," said Andrew Rose, Vice President Global Product Management, Safety Solutions. "Our port systems are known for being lightweight, easy to implant, easy to maintain during therapy, and easy to remove when no longer needed. The addition of a durable, easy-to-read CT identifier creates a system flexible for a variety of therapies. This system also reduces unnecessary needle sticks for patients since the port can be used for any of the patient's IV access requirements, including power and non-power injection therapies."

The new implantable ports are not yet available in all countries. Customers are advised to check with their local Smiths Medical representative for product availability.