subcutaneous port
subcutaneous port
A subcutaneous port is which is located completely under the skin. Medicines are given through the port using a special needle, called a Huber needle. A cream may be used that will numb the area before you get the needle stick. This device is also known as a Port-a-Cath, implantable pathway, or subcutaneous InfusaPort.
Advantages of a subcutaneous port
- A port reduces the number of needle sticks to administer medications, fluids, nutrition, and blood products, and to draw blood samples. However, a needle stick is required to access the device.
- A port can be in place for a long time.
- Some medications can irritate blood vessels. A port is placed in a large vein with high blood flow so there is less irritation.
- With some types of ports, more than one type of medicine or solution can be given at a time.
- The ports need less maintenance and attention since they are placed completely under the skin.
- The risk of long-term infection is lower compared to other venous catheters.
- Children can bathe and swim with a port if their health permits.
Subcutaneous port placement is a commonly used procedure during cancer treatment and has important benefits for patients and their families. However, there are always risks associated with anesthesia and surgery. Major risks during placement include bleeding, puncture of a lung or blood vessel, blood clots, irregular heartbeat, nerve injury, and infection. After placement of the line, the most common complications are blood clots, movement of the catheter out of position, and infection. Surgery is also necessary to remove the port. Serious complications are rare, but they do happen. Be sure to ask questions and follow all instructions from the care team.
Placement of an implantable line
The children will receive generally for port placement. They will not feel pain or be aware during the procedure. Patients will receive instructions to limit food or drink intake before the procedure. It is very important to follow these guidelines. Total procedure time is usually approximately 1-2 hours with anesthesia and recovery.
- Before the procedure, patients will have a blood test and a physical exam. Members of the care team will meet with the family to complete paperwork and answer questions.
- The patient will be taken to an operating room for the procedure. Depending on medical center policies, a parent may stay with the patient until placement is complete.
- Children receive general anesthesia for central line placement. Your heart rate and blood pressure will be monitored during the procedure and recovery.
- The skin in the area will be cleaned and the patient will be covered with a cloth to keep the area clean and help prevent infection.
- The vein will be located by anatomical landmarks. A small cut will be made in the skin near your collarbone or neck.
- A second cut about an inch long will be made at the top of the chest. The doctor will create a space, or pocket, under the skin for the port. A small tunnel will be made for the catheter.
- The catheter will be guided from the port and through the vein with x-ray guidance until the tip reaches the proper position near the heart.
- The port will remain in the space under the skin, and the incisions will be closed with stitches.
- X-rays will be used to check the position of the catheter and port, and to make sure the lung ( pneumothorax ) was not injured during the procedure. The port will be tested to make sure it is working properly.
- Patients will be taken to a recovery room. Patients will be monitored during this time. Recovery after port placement is approximately one hour. If the only procedure is port placement, patients may leave the hospital after recovery. A nurse will take care of home care.