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Any experience of a port

Rach-2GP
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Hello, 

I am potentially being referred for a port and would like to know other people's experience with it? 

I've previously had a PICC line for 6 chemos pre surgery, which was removed. Unfortunately I find myself in the position where I need 14 more cycles of chemo 3 weeks apart, this takes me to November. 

I have been cannulated for the first 2 chemos and it has been horrendous, I always had bad veins but they're much worse since chemo. It's taken them nearly 2 hours and multiple attempts each time. The Oncologist wants me to have a PICC again but for multiple reasons, including my son hating it and refusing to hug me when I had it in, I can't bear the idea of having one again. A port has been suggested but the process of getting it fitted sounds daunting. I'm wondering if people can share positives and negatives with me? 

Thanks, Rachel 

  • Offline

    Hi Rachel, I'm due to start chemo in a couple of weeks and was offered a picc. However, I requested a port as although more invasive to put in, requires less maintenance and hospital visits. I went to visit a friend who had a port and she assured me that the procedure isn't too bad. It's done under local anaesthetic and they put a sheet up, so you can't see anything. She said they also played music to help her stay relaxed. I'm just waiting for a date to be sent through, as long as its agreed that I can have it. I would also be interested in other people's opinion of having a port. Good luck with the rest of your treatment, I wish you well. Xx

  • Offline in reply to Pippin24

    I had a port put in last May prior to starting chemo. I like swimming a lot- I’m not a bit sporty tho. Putting it in was more uncomfortable than painful but recovery was fast. Now about an hour before I start chemo I take a couple of ibuprofen or paracetamol and rub the area with some Emla( local anaesthetic cream got it from the chemo nurse))cream. It’s no worse than having a blood test and I’m really glad I got it. No hassle about having a shower, bath or swimming. And I don’t even know it’s there most of the time 

    best wishes Cx

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