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wendym's avatar
wendym
Member
13 years ago

Port for chemo

Hi girls Just needing a bit of advice. I have just had my second round of chemo cycle and only 2 to go. Problem I have is my veins are so bad getting the cannula in that it takes 3 nurses and 3 times each time. I also ended up in emergency with temperature and no white cells a couple of weeks ago and same thing, it was so painful and I was in tears and screamed (apparently they use a larger needle in emergency than chemo). I must admit the girls in chemo were much kinder and after they found a vein it was bearable . Nurses have said a port might be better for me and no more hassles and I am booked in for this 2 days before my next chemo, but now unsure whether it is worth it and I put up with the pain for 2 more times instead of the hassle of going thru with the port. What has been your experience girls and any advice I would appreciate. Hugs wend xo

3 Replies

  • sillysam83's avatar
    sillysam83
    Member
    13 years ago

    you have to go in every week to get ur picc line 'flushed' 

    yes less invasive. picc line is placed in ur upper arm by ultrasound. 

    is better than the pain you are getting now and maybe a better option for you than going down the port road. 

     

  • wendym's avatar
    wendym
    Member
    13 years ago

    hey thanks for answering me.

    I just got a phone call not long ago by the oncology nurses to say they are going to suggest a picc line

    as it is less invasive.  I don't know how this works and how annoying it would be to have hanging around,

    but i guess it is another option.

    xo

  • sillysam83's avatar
    sillysam83
    Member
    13 years ago

    Ports are fantastic things. 

    YAY to only 2 more chemo's. but then u will also have regular blood tests etc after chemo. all this can be done thru a port. 

    you could also just get a picc line.

    the surgery for the port is day surgery - however 2 days later for chemo ouchie.... :(