Portecath Question
 

I've had my port for almost 9 months now and it doesn't move around like it use to. Does tissue grow to, or around it that would cause it not to float around?

Re: Portecath Question
 

yes the tissue does "grow,adhere" and kinda hang on to the port a little more once it starts to settle in a little more, don't forget to get it flushed according to Dr recommended frequency
Darita

Re: Portecath Question
 

I've had mine for 6 years and it stills moves a bit. As long as there's no trouble with it working, I wouldn't be concerned. :)

Re: Portecath Question
 

Thank you for your replies. My Muga scan in November showed injection fraction was low, so I skipped a Herceptin infusion in December. Next appt on Monday but no one mentioned it needing to be flushed.

Re: Portecath Question
 

I think every six weeks is the norm for flushing the port.

Re: Portecath Question
 

I had my port removed today and I brought up this subject of movement as I discussed the procedure with the surgeon before starting. I was told that the port really shouldn't move much since it is sutured (tied) into place on the chest wall. I had mine in for 3-1/2 years and never noticed it moving about. I could even feel the knot used to secure the suture. At any rate, my surgeon recommended that I have the port taken out since I was not actively receiving infusions and since there is always a risk of infection during the flushing process. For what its worth, my infusion nurse told me that they once had a patient (man) who didn't have his port flushed for several years. Something came up where the port was needed again. She said it worked just fine for him but she didn't receommend I follow that fellow's example. I didn't and now my port is history. I hope I never need another one.--bird

Re: Portecath Question
 

Congratulations Bird on your port removal. I too hope you never need it again. 1 round with this beast is more than anyone should have to deal with.