A Chemoport is a small device that is surgically placed beneath the skin below the collar bone. A catheter connects the port to a vein. Drugs can be injected and blood samples can be drawn many times through the chemoport.
Having a port can make cancer treatment a bit more comfortable.
What are chemo ports used for?
Though they’re often called “chemo ports,” they’re not just used for chemotherapy. Ports can be used to draw blood and deliver any other intravenous medication patients may need during treatment. They can also be used to infuse contrast solution for diagnostic imaging like CT scans and MRIs. On treatment days, the nurse /doctor will access the port with a special needle inserted directly into the port.
How are chemo ports placed?
Because ports are under the skin, they’re placed during a surgical procedure. Port installation depends on which vein is used. My practice is to insert it in the Internal Jugular vein in the neck.
How are chemo ports maintained?
During treatment the port is accessed monthly. Each time the port is accessed the nursing team will clean and prepare the site with an alcohol-based solution after which the special needle can be inserted.
How long can the patient keep the Chemoport ?
A chemo port can stay in as long as you need it — even several years. We usually keep it for 2 years. The port can be removed easily as an outpatient procedure.
