Porta cath

[Fuffyfrost]

Hi I'm having this procedure on Monday. I'm assuming many ladies have had this done . I know everyone's experience is different but I would appreciate it if someone could give me an idea what to expect. Thanks Fiona xxx

[Hertsmum]

Hi Fiona,

I had a portacath and the procedure is nothing to worry about. I had some local anaesthetic and a little sedation. It took about 45 minutes and they talked me through it all. After it is inserted it needs to be kept dry until the stitches dissolve and skin grows over the port they will give you instructions and extra dressings. But after that you can shower/swim with it and it is a great vein saver. Mine was visible under the skin that was the only thing I didn't like, and it has to be flushed

every month or so when not on treatment. My onc persuaded me to have it removed as this was first line but again it was pretty straightforward and left a small scar but not visible in most clothes.

Hope all goes well,

Madeline x

[kittie]

Hi Fuffyfrost , as Hertsmum said getting a port a cath fitted is very easy and painless. I have mine since Dec 2012 and it was left in in case it was needed again which unfortunately it was as I am now going through my 1st recurrance .Mine does stick out a bit but I call it my war wound and it also saves all the prodding around trying to find a good vein.Kittie

[Connie8 in reply to kittie]

HKittie . What drug combination are u on this time round . I two have a Recurrance an starting back on Gemzar an Cisplatin so just has anyone any experience of same . Second time round knocks one . It's scary . But am also happy treatment is available . Thanks so much . Cath

[kittie]

Hi Cath, I am on Carbo and Taxol once again I get carbo/taxol week 1 and taxol week 2 and 3 with week 4 chemo free. I had 22 months free before recurrance so could be put back on same chemo as 1st time. I am finding it a lot harder than the 1st time , maybe its becayouruse I did not know what to expect the 1st time round. Good luck with treatment.Kittie