Port and PICC Line (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) Placement
Port Placement
A port (portacath) is an IV line that is placed under the skin of your chest. You may need a port if you require on-going infusions of medication or blood draws. A chest port keeps the veins in your hands and arms from being stuck repeatedly with needles. The radiologist can place port the in a few minutes with IV sedation and local anesthetic. Patients can go home in an hour or two after they recover from the sedation. A port can be left in placed for as long as you need treatment. You can bathe and swim with a port after the skin heals.
Uses
- To deliver medicine
- To take blood for testing
- To inject X-ray contrast for CT and PET scans
How to Prepare
- You may be asked to fast the night before the procedure
What to Expect
- You will receive IV sedation or local anesthesia to alleviate pain
- A small incision will be made in the chest to insert the port. The radiologist can place the port in a few minutes
- The radiologist uses ultrasound and x-ray to guide the placement of the port
- You will be able to go home 1-3 hours following the procedure
PICC Line Placement
If you need long-term IV therapy, the radiologist can place a PICC line. This allows doctors and nurses to frequently give IV medicine without constantly sticking your arm. A PICC line is a long thin plastic tube (catheter) that is inserted in your arm. It can stay in for a few weeks or months.
Uses
- Long-term antibiotic treatment
- Other needed medicine
- TPN Nutrition
- Chemotherapy
- Blood transfusions
- Extended treatment at home
What to Expect
- Local anesthesia will be used
- Ultrasound will guide the catheter to the correct vein in your arm
- Putting in the PICC takes a few minutes