Chemotherapy Ports in Mohite Clinic | Dr. Saurabh Mohite

Chemotherapy is now an integral part in the treatment of breast cancer. As a rule, almost all cases of breast cancer, regardless of the stage of disease, benefit from chemotherapy. It is used in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings, and with curative and palliative intents

A major problem in the administration of chemotherapy; and also a cause of significant morbidity, is securing intravenous access. The veins on the operated side cannot be accessed due to risk of thrombosis. Besides, almost all chemotherapeutic agents are cytotoxic and can cause significant thromophlebitis and tissue reactions on extravasation. The veins may not be accessible in the obese or in children. Patients who have undergone bilateral breast surgery obviously cannot be administered chemotherapy through peripheral lines.

A Chemo PORT is strongly recommended in all of the above. In this article Consultant Surgical Oncologist, Dr Saurabh Mohite explains ports used for Chemotherapy for breast cancer treatment

What Is a Port for Chemotherapy?
A chemotherapy port (also known as a port-a-cath) is a small device that is implanted under the skin to allow easy access to the bloodstream. A port can be used to draw blood, infuse chemotherapy drugs and for transfusion of blood products 



How Is a Port Inserted?
Usually a day care procedure, PORTs are usually placed at least a week before the start of chemotherapy. They can also be safely placed at the time of primary surgery for the cancer, thereby reducing costs and hospital stay

During insertion, a small round metal or plastic disc is placed under the skin through an inch-or-two-long incision. This may be located on the upper chest or occasionally the upper arm. This port is then attached to a catheter tube that is threaded into one of the large veins near the neck, such as the subclavian vein or jugular vein.

After the port is placed, a slight protrusion is noticed over chamber site. During blood draws or chemotherapy infusions, a needle is inserted into an area called the "septum," a resealing rubber/silicon center on the Port. Since the port is completely under the skin, the patient can bathe and swim without being concerned about getting an infection.