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Medical glossary

Port

A port is a small reservoir placed under the skin, with a tube leading to a large vein. It is a convenient route for long-term treatment.

Last updated: ~1 min read
An implantable port with a special needle inserted into its membrane
Figure 1.A port and its special needle

01Short answer

A port is usually placed below the collarbone in a minor operation. When it is used, a special needle passes through the skin into the reservoir; when it is not in use nothing stays outside, so showering and daily life are easier. Regular flushing is needed. Redness, swelling, pain, fever, or swelling of the neck or arm: report it.

02Simple explanation

Under the skin.

Into a large vein.

Nothing outside.

Regular flushing.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: a port is a small device placed under the skin and connected by a catheter to a vein.

The NCI Dictionary explains cancer terms in plain language; check the exact meaning for your situation with your doctor.

04What happens in the body?

Advantages

Fewer needles and a freer life.

Below the collarbone
Figure 2.Below the collarbone.

Urgent

Fever, redness at the site or a swollen neck.

Everyday life
Figure 3.Everyday life — Port

Where you will see this word

In test results, discharge letters and conversations with your doctor. Write the word down and ask what it means.

Ask your doctor

The general meaning and the meaning of your own result can differ. The most important question is “What does this mean for me?”

05From an unfamiliar word to a clear answer: four steps

Write it down, look it up, prepare a question, ask.

Write it down — From a result or a conversation.1Write it downFrom a result or a conversation.
Look it up — Learn the plain meaning.2Look it upLearn the plain meaning.
Prepare a question — What does this mean for me?3Prepare a questionWhat does this mean for me?
Ask — Your doctor gives the personal explanation.4AskYour doctor gives the personal explanation.
UnderstandingResults feel less frightening.
ConversationA shared language with your doctor.
SafetyNot drawing conclusions alone.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
AdvantagesFewer needles and a freer life.
UrgentFever, redness at the site or a swollen neck.
Where you will see this wordIn test results, discharge letters and conversations with your doctor. Write the word down and ask what it means.
Ask your doctorThe general meaning and the meaning of your own result can differ. The most important question is “What does this mean for me?”

07Key terms

Reservoir
The part of the port that receives fluid.
Huber needle
A special needle for accessing the port.
Term
A word with a precise medical meaning.
Reference range
The range a laboratory considers normal.

08Key points

  • Learn.
  • Ask your doctor.
  • Write it down.
  • Write the word down.
  • Ask what it means.

09Frequently asked questions

Does a port hurt?

There may be a brief sting when it is accessed; ask about a numbing cream.

When is it removed?

After treatment ends, as your doctor decides.

This word is in my results: should I worry?

The word itself does not mean a serious or mild condition; get the explanation from your doctor.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Does a port hurt?

  2. When is it removed?

  3. This word is in my results: should I worry?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: port
  2. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: infection
  3. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
  4. National Cancer Institute. Leukemia
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: blast
  6. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: absolute neutrophil count
  7. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: Philadelphia chromosome
  8. American Cancer Society. Neutropenia (Low White Blood Cell Counts)
  9. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: bone marrow aspiration
  10. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: polymerase chain reaction
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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