Implanatble Port (CHEMOPORT)

What is a Chemoport?

It is a disc shaped medical device which is used for venous access for administration of drugs. It is placed beneath the skin at the chest and sometimes over the abdomen. It is barely visible under the skin. It consists of a silicon top which is used for venous access point (Special needles are placed through it) and a catheter which connects the port to a vein.

When do you need port?

It is required to anyone who needs frequent or long term IV medications.

• Chemotherapy administration.
• Long term antibiotics.

How the port is inserted?

Before insertion of the port your doctor would be getting test for your blood coagulation and other routine examinations. Do tell your doctor about any blood thinners you have been taking. They need to be stopped before the procedure. A fasting of at least 6 hours is recommended before the procedure.

It is daycare procedure. Most commonly the port is placed under the skin of the right chest.

You would be receiving light anaesthesia to put you under light sleep. Children may require general anaesthesia. Local anaesthesia is also given at the port site.

The doctor does the procedure under continuous X ray imaging (Fluoroscopy). An incision is given at the neck and a needle is inserted to cannulate the Internal Jugular Vein. A guide wire is then placed through the needle and catheter is guided over it into the vein. The catheter is then tunnelled onto the chest. A pocket is made under the skin of the right chest and the port is placed into it. The catheter is then connected to the port and the skin incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. X- Ray is done to check the correct position of the catheter.

What are the complications of the procedure?

Port blockages, pneumothorax, cracked port or dislodging of catheter tip.

How is implanted port used?

• A special needle is used in the process. The site is cleaned with antiseptic and under all aseptic precautions the port is fixed between fingers and the needle is inserted.
• The blood is withdrawn to confirm the position of needle. Port is flushed and the chemotherapy is administered. After the administration is complete, the port is flushed again and the needle is removed.

How long ports are needed?

A port is capable of taking up to 2000 pricks so it can be in place for months or even years. Once it is not required as per to your doctor it should be removed.

How can one take care of the port?

It does not need any special care. the port needs to be flushed at least once a month. You can do your daily activities unrestricted as before.

How the port is removed?

The port removal is relatively easier. It is done under local anaesthesia. The incision is given over the port and it is mobilized. The catheter and the port are then carefully removed.

Our experts at Lyfe Oncology Delhi provide world class facility for port insertion and removal.

Tags: Chemoport , Implanatble Port (CHEMOPORT)