Bright and early tomorrow morning, I have an appointment to get the port in. Wiki says "a port (or portacath) is a small medical appliance that is installed beneath the skin. A catheter connects the port to a vein. Under the skin, the port has a septum through which drugs can be injected and blood samples can be drawn many times".
I've read such a mix of comments on getting the port, I'm not sure what to expect (pain and un-
comfort wise). But everyone says its worth it... I'll update tomorrow with my own experience...
The procedure of getting port in was NOT a biggie. I was scared, as this was the first time in my whole life that I was put under for a procedure. But, I woke up, no pain, and it was done. It was a little tender for a few days, but manageable. The surgeon said I had bad veins, so they put that "tube" up my neck instead of down into the chest. I understood why, as my sister had the same problem and the surgeon had nicked her lung while trying to do it. So neck was fine with me. There are several different types of ports, and mine was very small. It bothered the chemo nurses, because this meant a very small target to hit with the needle. The surgeon also placed my port very deep in the "fat", which meant they always needed a bigger needle. It scared me to death, but never hurt!!!! I still tense up -- I don't know why!!!!! I'd rather have them dig in my arm for blood than use the port. It's just me!!!! You'll do fine! Most people LOVE their ports!
ReplyDeleteLet us know how it goes!
Cora
Heya,
ReplyDeleteThe port sucks. A lot. But it beats burned veins. I think you're making the right decision.
And hey, as long as partway through the procedure, the port doesn't jam into swollen lymph nodes, you're at least having an easier time of it than I am! :)
Good luck!
-am
Good luck for tomorrow, I will be thinking of you. I think you are making the right choice. On round 2 of my chemo my veins are so sore, read my blog today and that will tell you how sore! I had my 3rd session today but still have 8 to go and the 8 CMF ones are done in 2 lots so that will be 16 canulas aaaarrrrgggghh
ReplyDeleteHi Beth,
ReplyDeleteI've left a message on my blog under comments regarding your questions on steroids.
I had a central line for 8 months on my chest and now I have a PICC line on my left upper arm. I will likely get a port next ... please do let us know how it goes.
All the best,
Daria
Hi Beth
ReplyDeleteGood luck tomorrow. I think your blog is a wonderful idea and it is making me more computer savy.Have no idea what you are going through but my thoughts and hopes are with you.
Take care and looking forward to lunch,
Verene
Your blog is wonderful and you will get to meet some of the most amazing women because of it. Sadly, for every 100 wonderful comments you receive you'll also receive 1 that will make you say 'WHY ARE YOU TELLING ME THIS??'.
ReplyDeleteI'm not going to offer much comment on your port except to say you will appreciate it and probably you'll be an expert on it by the time its removed. Everyone is different; you know that. Anything and everything the doctors and hospitals can do to make this as painless and easy as they can, they will do for you.
I noticed a few women who are following your blog and you are in great company. These are the same woman who have been there for me since I started my blog and they are warriors. I'm so sorry you had to join our group. You have my prayers and advice anytime you need it.
With God's Love,
Sheri
I was reading about the port because I will be getting one soon too. I have the worst veins and i know they are not going to spend time digging while they just roll...I'm glad it wasn't too painful for you...
ReplyDeletealicia.x
Much obliged to you for giving such essential data, and a debt of gratitude is for sharing this issue.
ReplyDelete