Port Insertion Fact Sheet

What is a portacath port insertion?

A portacath is an implanted venous access device via port insertion for patients who need frequent or continuous administration of medications or other infusions. The port sits in the chest wall (similar to a pacemaker) and may remain “insitu” for many months.

Why do I need this procedure?

Your Doctor has asked for this port insertion procedure to be performed because you require the following;

  • Chemotherapy
  • Alternative infusion therapy
  • Your port can be used for taking blood and CT scans involving injection of contrast.
  • Once your treatment is complete and you no longer require the port it can be removed.
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Illustrated and actual Port Insertion

What should I expect?

  • The procedure can take between 30-60 mins.
  • You will be able to sit up immediately after the procedure.
  • You may be required to take some time off work – please let the nurses know so they can organise a medical certificate for you. An attendance certificate can be provided for your carer.
  • Please make sure you have someone to pick you up after your procedure. You procedure will be cancelled if you don’t have an escort.  Please contact MIVIR as soon as possible if this cannot be arranged.
  • If you have been unwell in the week leading up to your procedure date, please contact MIVIR as your procedure may need to be rebooked.

On the day of your Procedure

You will need to present to the Day Procedure Unit on the day of your appointment – your admission time will be sent to you with your appointment time.  This will allow the nurses time to complete your admission paperwork and any other tests that may be required such as blood tests or pre-medication.

You will be required to fast for 4 hours before you procedure – this means no food or fluids.  You may take any regular medication with a small sip of water.  Please continue to take your blood pressure medication.  Please bring a list of your medications with you.

Please contact MIVIR if you are taking medication for the following conditions;

  • Diabetes,
  • Stroke,
  • Heart Conditions such as a Heart Attack or Atrial Fibrillation.
Pre Procedure

Pre Procedure

You will be required to change into a hospital gown; you may leave your underwear on.  A cannula will be inserted into one of the veins in your arm or hand so medication can be given before, during or after your procedure.

Procedure

Procedure

You will be taken into the Angiography Suite and positioned on the table.  Monitoring equipment will be attached so the nurses can monitor your heart rate and oxygen saturations throughout the procedure.  A combination of Ultrasound and Fluoroscopy will be used throughout the procedure to safely and accurately insert the port.  A cold antiseptic solution will be used to clean the neck and chest on the side of insertion.  Sterile drapes will be used to cover you leaving only the insertion site uncovered.  Intravenous sedation will be given through the drip throughout the procedure.  Local anaesthetic will be injected into the skin and will sting for 15-20 seconds.  You should only feel pushing and pressure after this.  Absorbable sutures are used to close the wound – you do not have to have these removed.

Post Procedure

Post Procedure

Once the procedure is finished the port is ready for use, if you are commencing treatment in the following 2 days, the access needle can be left in.  A waterproof dressing is applied to the puncture sites. During your time in the recovery room the nurses will monitor your blood pressure and heart rate and regularly check the puncture site for any signs of bleeding.  You will be given something to eat and drink.  Your cannula will be removed just before you leave the hospital.  If you are staying overnight in the hospital, you will be taken to the ward after a short period in recovery.

Discharge

Discharge

If you are being discharged home, your recovery period is approximately 2-3 hours.  You must have someone to collect you and stay with you overnight.  You will be given a letter from the nurses with some discharge instructions and any other relevant information related to your procedure.  You may be required make a follow-up appointment with Dr Vrazas.  This can be made at your convenience by phoning MIVIR on 9411 7165.

At Home

At Home

We recommend the following;

  • Rest quietly for the next 24-48 hours.
  • No strenuous activity for the next 24-48 hours.
  • The chest dressing must remain intact for 7 days after the procedure unless it is being used.
  • If you notice any of the following, call an ambulance or present to your nearest Emergency Department.
    • Fevers or generally feeling unwell.
    • Chest pain
    • Pain, swelling, redness or drainage of pus around the port site or incisions
    • Swelling of the neck, face or arm on the side where the port is inserted
    • Shortness of breath or dizziness

Further Information

The following organisation also provides reliable health information:

Portacath – Sydney Interventional Radiology

Author: Dr John Vrazas