Installation of port system

The installation of a port system is the optimal solution for patients who need parenteral, intravenous administration of drugs for more than 3 weeks. It is implanted under the skin, does not interfere with everyday life and remains invisible to others.

During injections through a port system:

• the veins are not injured;
• the patient does not feel pain;
• the negative effect of chemotherapy on the vessels is reduced;
• the risk of infection is reduced.

At Oxford Medical, port systems are implanted by vascular surgeons with many years of experience. The procedure is performed under X-ray control in a modern surgical hospital. For the patient's comfort, local or general anesthesia is used.

An infusion port is a specially designed system for intravenous administration of drugs. It can be said that it is a more convenient and durable alternative to an intravenous catheter.

The port consists of two parts, both of which are implanted under the skin. The first is a flexible thin catheter up to 50 cm long, which is inserted into a vein. The second part is a small injection reservoir made of titanium and coated inside with a bioinert polymer. It has a round shape, a diameter of up to 4.5 cm, and a height of about 1 cm. On top is a multilayer silicone membrane. During injections, it is pierced with a special needle, called a Huber needle.

After implantation and healing of the skin, the port system becomes invisible to others, but a doctor or nurse can easily detect it by inspection and palpation.

It is recommended to install a venous port system before starting chemotherapy. This helps to avoid the development of phlebitis - pathological changes due to the effects of chemotherapy drugs. However, it is possible to install a port later, for example, before the second course of chemotherapy. In each case, the decision is made individually.

Port systems are used in the treatment of not only oncological diseases. They are also installed in other patients when injection therapy is planned for more than 3 weeks.

Implantation of the port system ensures patient comfort during treatment. Unlike a catheter for intravenous injections, it does not create restrictions in everyday life. The patient can take a shower and perform any daily activities without fear.

The main advantages of infusion ports compared to conventional intravenous injections or catheters are:

• reduction of discomfort from therapy - they do not limit the patient in everyday life and remain invisible to others;
• absence of pain during injections and drips;
• possibility of use for blood tests;
• reduction of the toxic effect of chemotherapy on blood vessels and surrounding soft tissues;
• constant access to the vein for rapid administration of drugs;
• possibility of use for several years.

Before the port system is implanted, the patient undergoes blood tests and Dopplerography of the vessels. The examinations are necessary to exclude contraindications and to choose the optimal place for the port installation. Most often, it is implanted in the subclavian area, but another location is also possible. It all depends on the patient's health and the planned treatment.

The procedure is performed in the operating room under X-ray control. Local or general anesthesia is used for pain relief.

First, the vascular surgeon makes a small incision and inserts a catheter into the vein. After that, he forms a place for the port under the skin, installs it and connects both elements. At the end, stitches and a sterile bandage are applied. Usually, this operation lasts from 40 to 60 minutes.

In the absence of indications for hospitalization, the patient can leave the clinic on the same day.

For a week or two, until the skin heals, it is recommended not to swim in open water and avoid heavy physical exertion. In the future, the port system allows you to lead a normal lifestyle.

The cost of the procedure may vary depending on the type of port system. They come in different sizes and are selected individually for each patient. At «Oxford Medical» we use only high-quality ports from leading manufacturers. They adapt well and, with proper care, can be used for several years.

You can find out the prices of treatment at «Oxford Medical» here. To find out the price taking into account individual characteristics, make an appointment with a doctor at a time convenient for you.

At «Oxford Medical», port systems are implanted by vascular surgeons with many years of experience. Thanks to this, as well as the use of only high-quality systems, individual consumables and new equipment, each patient can be confident in the high safety of the procedure.