to Port or not to Port...that is the Question

Lisa · 09-03-2006, 09:13 PM

I can't imagine NOT having a port. Yes, there will be a scar. But so what? Is your husband really that concened for you or for himself. My husband has never commented on it and I've had it in for the past 3 years. It doesn't ever bother me. I would have real issues having an IV every week without it. The majority of women have one and have no problems. My vote: Deal!

Love and light,

Lisa

tousled1 · 09-03-2006, 10:08 PM

I have a port and I too couldn't imagine not having it. The incision where the port was put in is less than an inch in size and almost invisible. When I think about all the chemo sessions and now a year of Herceptin, and who knows what down the road I know that I made the right decision in getting a port.

John21 · 09-04-2006, 06:38 AM

You should have the port as the others have recommended. My wife has had one from the start. SHe does not regret the decision, nor do I. It is a vein saver, but once it is in, it is easier on you. I do not notice it and when it ever comes out, who cares as long as I still have her.

Hope it helps

John

janet/FL · 09-04-2006, 07:32 AM

I vote for a port. I am not real happy with the scar, but after one year of Herceptin I would say it is a small price to pay for saving my arm! My arm was numb and hurting from all the blood draws, blood pressure tests and infusions. I have no regrets. I do not even allow them to use the automatic blood pressure cuff on my arm. It can leave it numb if it inflates too high or has a problem and has to reinflate the second time.
And I want to add, scars fade. I can't even find evidience of when I weed wacked my foot and leg! Scars are all gone! LOL
Janet

Becky · 09-04-2006, 07:40 AM

I did not get a port. I have had 4 AC followed by 4 Taxol then 16 months of Herceptin (actually 15 with 2 more to go). My veins are ok. However, if I had to do it again, I should have gotten a port. My first onc (have since switched) convinced me not to do it but at the time, Herceptin wasn't available as an adjuvant yet (I started 4 months after my last chemo) and I should have gotten one then too. But my onc (same one) said Herceptin is not bad on the veins like chemo so, I didn't.

But, I am 47 and the chance of needing my left arm for future surgeries or whatever... well, I do think about it. Naturally I am assuming I will never need chemo again but if I ever do, I will get a port for sure.

Kind regards

Becky