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Jun 17, 2022 · The port can also be used for blood draws, other intravenous (IV) medications, and special imaging tests like CT (computed tomography) scans or PET (positron-emission tomography) scans . This article explains what ports are, how they're used, and their potential benefits. Willowpix / Getty Images.
- Molly Adams
- What is a chemo port? A port is a device placed under the skin which connects to one of your major veins. It looks like a disc around the size of a quarter, with a flexible tube attached.
- What are chemo ports used for? Though they’re often called “chemo ports,” they’re not just used for chemotherapy. Ports can be used to draw blood and deliver any other intravenous medication patients may need during treatment.
- How are chemo ports placed? Because ports are under the skin, they’re placed during a surgical procedure. Port installation depends on which vein is used.
- Which patients may use a chemo port? Any patient who will be undergoing regular chemotherapy or other infusions may be a candidate for a port. Some patients may only need them for a few months, while others can use a port for years.
- What is a port, and why would you want one? A port is a plastic disc (roughly the size of a U.S. quarter or Canadian loonie) that is placed underneath your skin, usually above your breast or below the collarbone, and is used to intravenously feed medication directly into a large vein and into the heart.
- How long does it take to insert a port, and what is the recovery like? It is a short procedure, and you can expect to be in the hospital for a couple of hours.
- Does it hurt? Not typically, but when it is accessed for chemo or a blood draw, the initial poke does sting a bit (similar to an IV poke in your arm).
- What does it feel like when it’s not being used for treatment? It can be uncomfortable. Wearing a seat belt or a purse directly over the port area can irritate it, but thankfully, accessories can help — think small pillows between your port and the seat belt or a seat belt wrap.
Aug 2, 2023 · About Your Implanted Port. Time to Read: About 13 minutes. This information explains implanted ports, port placement, and how to care for your port. An implanted port is often called a mediport or port-a-cath. A port protects your veins during cancer treatment.
An implanted port is a device to put medicine, blood, nutrients, or fluids directly into your blood. The port may be used to draw blood for tests only if another vein, such as in the hand or arm, can't be used. People can have a port for weeks, months, or longer. A port is usually put under the skin of your chest below your collarbone.
GUIDELINES FOR BLOOD DRAWS FROM IMPLANTED PORTS. Critical Elements: 1. Not all patients who have implanted ports require blood draws from their ports. 2. Every effort should be made by all disciplines to communicate the following to patients with implanted ports: a. Although bloods can be drawn via an implanted port, there may be times when:
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Jan 31, 2023 · A chemo port is a small, implantable device that attaches to a vein (usually in your upper chest area). It allows healthcare providers to draw blood and give treatments — including chemotherapy drugs — without a needle stick. A port can remain in place for weeks, months or even years.
