Chemotherapy is an integral component of multimodality cancer treatment. Peripheral venous access for chemotherapy administration is associated with complications such as cellulitis, thrombophlebitis, and skin necrosis. Totally implantable central venous access devices (chemoports) were developed to overcome these issues; however, they are not free from complications. This study aimed to analyze the spectrum, incidence, and management of chemoport-related complications at a tertiary care center in Eastern India.

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained data of patients who underwent chemoport insertion for chemotherapy infusion between January 2023 and December 2024. Clinicodemographic characteristics, details of malignancy, port insertion technique, and complications were recorded. Complications were categorized as immediate perioperative (within 48 h) or late (after 48 h).

A total of 230 patients were included, with a median age of 45 years (range: 12–75 years). Breast cancer was the most common indication (46.9%), followed by gastrointestinal (24.3%) and gynecological/urological malignancies (18.2%). Right internal jugular vein access was used in 200 patients. The overall complication rate was 7.3%. Complications included surgical site problems, port flipping, catheter-related thrombosis, chemoextravasation into the thoracic cavity, and pinch-off syndrome. Most complications were successfully managed with timely intervention; port removal was required in selected cases. No life-threatening complications such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, air embolism, or cardiac tamponade were encountered.

Chemoport insertion is a safe and effective method for long-term chemotherapy administration when performed using appropriate technique and vigilance. Awareness, early recognition, and prompt management of complications are essential to minimize morbidity. The complication rate in our series was lower than that reported in the published literature.