Implantable drug delivery systems

The introduction of fully implantable catheter devices has not only provided a simple, permanent and safe means of access to the vascular system, but has also greatly improved patients' quality of life. This text brings together experiences with venous, arterial and epidural drug delivery systems in the management of cancer. Researchers and clinicians consider the indications, advantages and disadvantages of the different types of implantable devices and discuss clinical results and implantation procedures. Special attention is paid to the training of nursing staff responsible for the care and maintenance of these systems in both the inpatient and outpatient setting.