Port Removal

[PatriceH]

With herceptin done, my onc scheduled an appointment with surgeon to remove my port next month. I've heard this is done in the office--way freaky!

How big a deal is this? Scheduler said I might want someone to take me--is this necessary?

Details please :)

[tricia keegan]

I just had a local anesthetic in my Dr's office, the needle was a little sore but I felt no pain having the port removed, just pressure similar to a tooth extraction when the gum is numbed.

They had at first suggested light sedation so if you're getting this you'll need someone with you, but with the local I don't think it's necessary.

[sarah]

Hello,
Having gone through cancer twice, I asked what about leaving mine in. My onc said that was fine. I asked if I should have it periodically rinsed out and he said no, leave it be. So it's my "insurance" against not needing it again!!!
I'd suggest taking someone with you just in case you get anxious.
health and happiness
sarah

[BonnieR]

It sounds freakier than it is! My surgeon chatted with me as she did it. Can you take maybe an Ativan or Valium ahead of time? And then have someone drive you?

[Chelee]

When I had my first port removed it was done in the hospital by a interventional radiologist. I just checked into the "Cath Lab" and it was a very simple procedure. I was a little nervous but they used a local anesthetic to numb up the area and all you feel is a slight pressure & pulling sensation. I had no pain during the removal. I had my husband drive me...if I remember right they told me to bring someone with me? The procedure was much easier then I had anticipated. Good luck.

Chelee

[Jackie07]

Sarah,

My oncologist said to 'flush' my port every 6 weeks. I think the longest 'gap' I've had was a little more than 2 months.

[tricia keegan]

I also was told if it remains in, it would have to flushed every month!

[vlcarr]

I just had mine removed not long ago and they knocked me out. I went in the hospital just like I did with my other surgeries. They didn't put me under general but did put me under. It was a breeze and was barely sore at all afterward. I only spent about 30 mins in the recovery room and was on my way home.

[1rarebird]

Anyone know what happens regarding bleeding from the vein when the catheter is pulled out? I've still got my port in and have been wondering what stops blood from flowing out of the vein which is under pressure. I guess the body's normal platelet coagulation properties will seal the hole, but I don't see how some blood doesn't escape. Maybe that's not a big problem, but I'm guessing someone on aspirin or warfarin therapy might have a problem.

bird

[Jackie07]

It was a very tiny 'opening' on the skin, I guess because the device is 'soft'? Here's the explanation with illustrations from Wikipedia, looks like the contact with the vein is minimum:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_(medical)

[v-ness]

ew, i do not like the idea of sitting in the doc's office and conscious for that. the sensation of something 'pulling' in my chest might make me nauseous. i can look at blood & guts just fine, but funny things like that make me sick. i sure hope he does me in the hospital. v

[Catherine]

Mine was removed in the office. That was 3 years ago, but I do not remember it hurting. No reason to be put under if you do not have to in my book. I do have an inch -plus scar (sp).

Catherine

[vlcarr]

When I thought back on this I remembered one of the nurses or my surgeon telling me these would soon be done in the office. It was obvious it was an insurance issue. Just me, but I'm all about being knocked out. I've had enough pain to last me a while over the years, so don't mind it at all and it's a lot less stressful for me personally:)