Picc line

Hi all. I know its probably the least of most of our worries. But do you ever get used to the picc line being in? Mines been in since Xmas eve and apart from the first week it doesn't hurt or irritate me but I just cant get used to the 'feeling' of it being there. Will i ever 'get used' to it?

  • Not sure if picc or power port is better. I think it is a bit swings and roundabouts. 

    I had a picc line fitted for chemo and was fortunate that I only did 3 months before surgery was an option. I had it taken out as soon as I could and was very happy to see it gone. 

    I have no personal experience of the power port but know people who had them. They are more permanent and waterproof so less trouble. I think the powerport might be better for longer periods of chemo but cannot really say as I have only had a picc line so have nothing to compare with.

    I had to get the picc line flushed every 10 days which was a pain when not on Chemo. The power port needs to be flushed at 4 to 6 week intervals so this is an advantage.

    The Power port is more permanent and needs more specialised fitting and removal.

    Hope this helps....

  • Hi,

    I've just watched a video of one being fitted so I think that is the brand name for what the radiologist was mentioning.

    LJ

  • That's very helpful, thanks Ronnaldo.

    The flushing out thing does sound like it would be a real pain especially if it will be in for at least a year as I'm hoping to continue working through this chemo (okay, probably not initially, but I'm hoping with a year to do it that at some point my body adjusts and I can be back at work).

    Thanks,

    LJ