Prolonged exposure of implantable central venous access device salvaged by a simple local flap: A case report

Abstract Background An implantable central venous device is often used in patients when prolonged intravenous systemic therapy is anticipated for oncologic treatment. Exposure of a percutaneous implantable venous access device is a known complication that usually requires its removal. Methods We report a patient with a venous device implanted in the left arm, which was complicated by device exposure for 4 months. Clinically, there was no evidence of infection. The issue was addressed with a simple local flap for coverage. Results A local random fasciocutaneous flap was elevated under local anaesthesia and transferred to cover the exposed device as a day surgery. The wound healed uneventfully, with no recurrence of device exposure at the 3‐month follow‐up. Conclusion The reported case supports flap coverage as an effective method for addressing exposed implantable venous devices, even with prolonged exposure, provided there is no infection.