A chemo port is a small implantable reservoir with a thin silicone tube that is attached to a large vein. The main advantage of this device is that chemotherapy medications can be delivered directly into the port rather than a vein.
Where is chemo port implanted?
A chemo port is centrally placed under the skin near a large vein in the chest. It’s considered as an alternative to an intravenous (IV) catheter that is peripherally placed in arm or hand. Most of the time after repeated administration of chemotherapy intravenous access becomes more difficult, having a chemo port can provide a safer and more efficient delivery of chemotherapy drugs through a small prick in the port
How is chemo port placed?
Insertion of chemo port is done under sedation (Anesthesia). A small cut is made in your neck or upper chest to access the vein, a small opening is created in the vein and the silicone tube is inserted into the vein. A subcutaneous pouch is created in the upper chest wall where the chemo port is placed and the opening is closed with stitches. The procedure usually takes an hour. Post procedure an x ray is taken to check the chemo port position. Patient can be discharged home on the same day.
Advantages of having a chemo port
In addition to the delivery of chemotherapy medications, it can provide other benefits
- It can be used to deliver fluids and transfusions
- Drawing blood for lab testing
- Injecting dye for PET and CT scans
- A port can remove in place as long as necessary
What are the risks of chemotherapy ports?
- Thrombosis : Blood clots block the catheter
- Mechanical issues : catheter moving out of place
- Infection : Though rare, an infection of chemo port is a major risk, and it warrants immediate removal and replacement of the port
Chemo port removal
Unlike chemo port insertion, its removal does not need any sedation. A local anesthesia is injected over the scar site, incision is made and the port is released from surrounding tissue and the entire device is removed enbloc.
Patient may develop mild discomfort or swelling after chemo port removal which are normal and settle in a few days.