Port for Chemothrapy

[sumanb]

I will be starting chemo in Mid july. My oncologist is suggesting AC, 4 cycles. I was too upset at the prspect to ask him why AC and not TC. He also said they will insert a tube in my arm instead of a port to avoid surgery. The tube will be sticking out for the duarion of the treatment. I have never heard this. Has anyone had this type of mechanism to receive infusion? if so, what are pluses and minuses?

Thanks

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear sumanb,   There are different methods used for intravenous (IV) access for the course of chemotherapy.  Decisions about type of IV access are based on several factors including length of time the treatment will be given over, type of drugs to be given etc.  What your doctor may be referring to is a PICC line (peripherally inserted central catheter).  Although still considered temporary, a PICC line can be inserted and used for six weeks to a few months before it is discontinued. PICC line insertion involves the placement of a long plastic catheter into one of the larger veins of the arm.  This procedure is a non-surgical outpatient procedure.  A special x-ray, called fluoroscopy will confirm that the PICC line catheter is in the right place.  Care of the PICC line involves a weekly dressing change and flushing which the nurses would do when you are in for treatment.  You would need to keep the area/dressing clean and dry.     We cannot answer why your oncologist may be recommending one chemotherapy regimen over another. You may want to schedule an additional appointment with him or her to discuss your questions.

[boninclyde]

That seems to be the norm. Go to breastcancer.org and join the discussion board there under community support. Scan through the topics until you see going through chemo.

[Avidhiker]

I was originally scheduled to receive TC.  I was allergic BIG TIME to the T so the prescription was changed to AC.  Because A is extremely toxic to the veins, my oncologist ordered a port.  It was a godsend!  I really don't think I could have tolerated ANY chemo without it.  My veins are so darn thin to begin with, even a pediatric needle is too big.  The surgery was no big deal.  It was done under conscious sedation and the removal was real quick with just a local.  I don't regret having the port at all.

[gutting]

I too have had a PORT insertion and after chemo, removal. This was absolutely the best option for me due to my small and elusive veins as well as 8 treatments of very strong chemo. Both insertion and removal were not difficult and certainly much easier than the mastectomy. I had the option of having the PORT in my arm or chest. I wanted my arm as I felt my chest had already been invaded enough. However, the radiologist was unable to insert it in my arm so it was placed in my chest. I had no problems with it for the year I had it - and the chemo nurses said their experience confirms in the chest PORTs to be best - access is easier and there are fewer problems. And who would know better than those who administer chemo daily!

[ShariPDX]

I had AC x 4 with NO port.  They used my wrist.  
My arm veins are pretty deep.  My surgeon said
the surgery for a port wasn't worth it just for 4
treatments and to make it easier on the nurses.  
They put a lot of stuff in the mix to dilute the chemo,
get you hydrated, and relieve any nausea.  It all went
quite well.  Take something to read or some cross
word puzzles.  ;^)

[Diand]

A related discussion, Ki67 was started.