An analysis of the outcomes of totally implantable access port implantation performed by surgical residents

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes after totally implantable access port (TIAP) implantation performed by general surgery residents in patients with colorectal cancer. METHODS: A total of 291 consecutive patients who underwent TIAP implantations were evaluated. The patients were divided into three groups: second-, third-, and fourth-grade residents. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 22.1 months (range, 1–87 months). The total times of operation, puncture, and cannulation decreased as the resident grade increased (P<0.001). Early complications significantly decreased with higher resident grades (P=0.039). The non-use of ultrasonography and non-use of C-arm were identified as independent risk factors for complications. Resident grades between second and third (P=0.005) and between second and fourth (P=0.041) were identified as independent risk factors for optimal tip position. CONCLUSION: TIAP implantation can be safely and effectively performed by residents. Low-grade residents were associated with early complications.