A chemotherapy port, often called a port-a-cath, is a small, implantable medical device designed to provide consistent, long-term access to a patient’s bloodstream. This device typically consists of a small reservoir, about the size of a quarter, with a self-sealing rubber top (septum) and a thin, flexible tube (catheter) attached. The port is placed entirely under the skin, usually in the upper chest, and the catheter is threaded into a large vein, most often near the heart. This setup allows healthcare providers to administer treatments and draw blood without needing repeated needle sticks into peripheral veins.
Why a Chemo Port is Necessary
A chemotherapy port offers significant advantages over traditional intravenous (IV) lines for patients undergoing prolonged or frequent treatments. Many chemotherapy drugs can be harsh on smaller, peripheral veins, potentially causing irritation, damage, or leakage into surrounding tissues. Delivering these medications directly into a larger, central vein through a port reduces such risks.
Individuals requiring frequent treatments or blood draws often experience discomfort and vein fatigue from repeated needle insertions. A port streamlines this process by providing a reliable access point, minimizing the need for multiple needle sticks. This greatly enhances patient comfort and convenience. Ports also allow for sterile access, which reduces the risk of infection compared to standard IVs.
The Port Insertion Procedure
The insertion of a chemotherapy port is a minor surgical procedure, performed on an outpatient basis and usually taking less than an hour. Patients receive pre-procedure instructions, which may include fasting or having an IV placed for fluids or sedation.
The procedure commonly involves local anesthesia, often combined with sedation. General anesthesia may be used in some cases. The surgeon or interventional radiologist makes two small incisions: one in the lower neck and another in the upper chest, just below the collarbone.
Through the neck incision, a large vein is accessed. A thin, flexible catheter is threaded through this vein, guided by X-ray imaging, until its tip is positioned in a large central vein near the heart. A small pocket is created under the skin in the chest, and the port reservoir is placed within this pocket.
The catheter is connected to the port reservoir, and the system is secured. The incisions are closed using sutures or surgical glue. After the procedure, an X-ray confirms the correct placement of the port and catheter. Patients can usually go home the same day but should arrange for a ride due to the effects of anesthesia. Mild soreness, bruising, and tenderness around the incision sites are common and subside within a few days.
Caring for Your Chemo Port
Once a chemotherapy port is inserted and the initial surgical sites have healed, ongoing care is important to ensure its proper function and prevent complications. When treatment is needed, a healthcare professional accesses the port by inserting a special non-coring needle directly through the skin and into the port’s rubber septum.
To prevent blood clots and maintain patency, the port is regularly flushed with a saline solution, even when not actively in use. This flushing schedule is every four weeks, or more frequently if needed. Maintaining strict sterile technique during access and flushing is important to minimize the risk of infection.
Patients can shower or bathe once the incision sites have healed, usually within 24 to 48 hours. Once fully healed, activities like swimming are safe because the port is completely beneath the skin. However, patients should discuss any strenuous activities, particularly those involving the upper body or putting pressure on the port, with their healthcare team. Watch for signs of complications, such as redness, swelling, pain, warmth, or fever around the port site, as these could indicate an infection and require immediate medical attention.
When a Chemo Port is No Longer Needed
A chemotherapy port is typically designed to remain in place for weeks, months, or even years, serving its purpose throughout the course of treatment. Once a patient has completed their full treatment regimen and the medical team determines that long-term venous access is no longer required, the port can be removed.
The removal of a port is also a minor surgical procedure, and is often performed under local anesthesia with or without sedation. The surgeon makes a small incision directly over the port to access and remove the device and its attached catheter. The incision is then closed, and patients typically experience mild discomfort and some bruising, which resolve within a few days.