Port for Herceptin

[Christine]

Hi Christine
I had when I first started with A/C an arm port put in. It was necessary to protect my veins from the harm of this type of toxic chemo. It was fine for 5 months, then the line began to break away and it ended up in my chest all curled up near my cardio pulmonary arteries. It was a very unpleasant ordeal to have it removed via a fishing line and hook going up through the groin down near my right thigh. It ended up okay after a few tries and heart flutters the 2nd Doctor finally caught the line and dragged it out.
Although this may not happen to you if your careful at any location. Make sure you're comfortable and can move about with the port as easy as you can.
I have never had another port put in for Herceptin or Taxol. I was told it would not be neceassary, and also I have very palpable veins and easy to reach.
It's been over 6 1/2 yrs w/o a port and only taking Herceptin every 3 weeks.

Lf you have veins not easily located then a port will make it easier for you.
Good question , I hope I helped to answer the port delema decision.
Hugs and Well Wishes, Christine


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