Sheila! As usual, so many points to make. First off, my port is the best thing I ever did. Outpatient w/all the who cares what they do meds. BARD, older version ('98). They told me to wait 2 days before doing chemo. It was sore. I was woozy for the rest of the day and was happy to rest comfortably at home sleeping on and off. Think the chemo same day thing out, please. I know you are made of steel, but, be good to yourself.
Does the new model have an opening that leaves it prone to infection? One of the ports does, and I would not want that personally. I do use my port for all blood draws, and contrast. Have been a regular at the Imagining Center for CTs since '98 and never had a problem. Two salines flushes before and after w/Heploc.
Re numbing spray! I used this for yrs. Then I learned that it is viewed by some chemo nurses as another invitation to expose the port to infection, which has a direct line to your heart. It also degrades the skin. So I have sworn off the lidocaine. It pinches for an instant, then done, IN.
With a port -- my onc says you must take 4 500 mg Amoxicillin 1 hr prior to any and all dental work. I also checked w/gastro guy before colonoscopy. Antibiotic to protect you is essential at such times! Hope everyone knows this. I mentioned it at the dental office. Very efficient Collette said she just read NEW guidelines on the Net, don't need antibiotic anymore. I called my onc. YES. IF YOU HAVE A PORT YOU MUST TAKE ANTIBIOTIC! VERY IMPORTANT. Seems new guidelines pertain to matters of the heart, not to port patients. I clarified that w/Collette for others, who may be misled. Thank you for telling me, blah, blah.
So, Sheila, much to think about here. I am sending you my love and constant amazement over your extraordinary strength, courage and attitude. You are a role model for us all! I will think of you on Thursday. Please consider not overdoing.
Bottom line -- you're going to love your port! But you will learn to guard it well. I won't let anyone who isn't familiar w/accessing a port touch me! Which is yet another conundrum -- having a top of the line model that no one has worked w/. That's the good news and the bad. Sorry, to be full of so much advice, but I guess that's what comes w/a two timer. (This is my 2nd port which I got w/my met...)
Keep smiling, sweet Sheila! We all love ya...
Andi 