Understanding the Procedure of Having a Chemo Mediport Inserted in the Chest.
Hey Breasties,
Welcome to my weekly blog. This week, I am sharing a personal experience regarding my chemo port. My mediport procedure took place in September 2023. I approached this procedure with a mix of fear and uncertainty, unsure of what to expect despite watching numerous videos on YouTube. Unfortunately, these videos did not fully prepare me for the experience.
My journey of battling breast cancer has motivated me to assist other breast cancer patients and their caregivers in understanding what to anticipate. Stay strong, keep the faith, and let's meet at the finish line.
A chemo mediport, otherwise known as a port-a-cath, is a small medical appliance inserted under the skin-usually in the chest-to make chemotherapy treatment easier and less painful. Such a device has made receiving the treatment rather comfortable and swift. Here I describe, in outline form, how a chemo mediport is inserted into the chest.
• 1. Pre-Procedure Preparation
Your healthcare provider will do a full examination, including history and physical examination and any lab tests that may be needed before the procedure. You will receive specific preparation instructions for your procedure. These may include the following:
• Fasting – You will not be able to eat or drink anything for several hours beforehand.
• Medication adjustment: The doctor should be informed about all medications being taken, as they may need some adjustment or complete cessation for some time.
• Consent: The consent form stating that you are informed about the procedure and the associated risks would have to be signed.
2. Arrival at Facility
On the day of your procedure, you will arrive at the medical facility; thereafter, the following will happen:
• Check-In: You shall report to the check-in desk and, if needed, fill out your forms.
• Gown Changing: You will be provided with a hospital gown in which you can change.
• IV Line Placement: A small intravenous line may be inserted into the arm through which medications and fluids can be given during the procedure.
• 3. Anesthesia
The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia with sedation. Though in some instances, general anesthesia may be used. The anesthesia team will do the following: administer sedation through the IV line to make you relaxed and as comfortable as possible with minimal discomfort; local anesthesia in the area in which the port will be inserted is numbed with a local anesthetic.
4. Insertion of the Mediport The actual insertion of the mediport involves several key steps:
• Incision: The physician will create a tiny cut within the chest; it could be just below the collarbone. Don’t worry you will be sedated and shouldn’t feel anything.
• Creating a Pocket: A pocket in the skin will be made in order for it to hold the port.
• Placement of Catheter: The catheter, which is typically thin and flexible, is advanced from the port into a major vein-usually the superior vena cava-leading to the heart.
• Securing of the Port: The port is secured in the pocket, and the catheter is attached to it.
• Closure of Incision: The incision is closed by sutures or surgical glue and covered with a sterile dressing.
• 5. Post-Procedure Care
You will then be taken to the recovery area to be monitored for any immediate complications. Post-procedure care includes:
• Observation: You will be observed for a short period of time to make sure you are stable and comfortable.
• Pain Management: You may be given pain medication if there is any discomfort.
• Discharge Instructions: You will be given instructions regarding the care of the incision site, including how to keep the area clean and dry and the signs of infection for which you should watch.
• 6. Follow-Up and Usage
Once the port is in place, it can be used for chemotherapy and other treatments. Follow-up care includes:
• Regular Flushing: The port may have to be regularly flushed to prevent clotting.
• Monitoring: The site of your port installation shall be checked by your doctor for signs of infection or any complications that might arise from it. Your oncology nurse will also check this at treatment.
• Removal: It can be removed when it is no longer needed, which is performed with a similar minor surgical procedure.
• Conclusion
Insertion of a chemo mediport in the chest is a common procedure that can considerably enhance comfort and efficiency during chemotherapy treatment. By understanding the steps involved, patients can feel more prepared and confident about the process. I am not a physician and this is NOT medical advice. I am only sharing my experience. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and reach out to them with any questions or concerns.