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Treatment and the treatment process

What is a port

A port is a small chamber placed under the skin; its tube runs into a large vein and nothing shows on the outside.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A port under the skin.
Figure 1.A port under the skin.

01Short answer

A port is usually placed below the collarbone in a small operation. The chamber has a silicone top that is reached with a special needle. When it is not in use nothing is outside, so daily life such as showering and swimming (if your team agrees) is easier. Ports are chosen for long treatment with breaks.

02Simple explanation

Topic. port.

Ask. Your team will explain your own situation.

Write down. Your questions.

Overview. The article “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.

03Scientific explanation

Septum: withstands many needle entries.

Choice: port, PICC or external catheter depends on how long and what kind of treatment.

04What happens in the body?

Port

A port is usually placed below the collarbone in a small operation. The chamber has a silicone top that is reached with a special needle. When it is not in use nothing is outside, so daily life such as showering and swimming (if your team agrees) is easier. Ports are chosen for long treatment with breaks.

In more detail

Septum: withstands many needle entries. Choice: port, PICC or external catheter depends on how long and what kind of treatment.

The port chamber — What is a port
Figure 2.The port chamber — What is a port

The overview

This article goes deep into one subject. For the bigger picture, see “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.

A port and an external line.
Figure 3.A port and an external line.

05Port: the steps

Four steps.

Decision — With your team.1DecisionWith your team.
Placement — A small operation.2PlacementA small operation.
Healing — A few days.3HealingA few days.
Use — With a special needle.4UseWith a special needle.

06Port versus external line

FeaturePortExternal line
AppearanceUnder the skinTubes outside
Daily careMinimalRegular dressings
AccessThrough a needleDirectly via a cap

07Key terms

Port
An implanted access chamber.
Septum
The silicone top of the chamber.

08Key points

  • Everyone’s plan is individual.
  • Write down and bring your questions.
  • Report new symptoms early.
  • Do not change medicines yourself.
  • For food, see “Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”.
  • Overview: “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.

09Frequently asked questions

Does a port hurt?

It may be tender for a few days after placement; afterwards it usually does not bother you.

Is this the same for everyone?

No; the plan depends on the type of leukaemia and your situation.

Where is the overview?

In the article “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.

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. Is this the same for everyone?

  3. Where is the overview?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Definition of port – NCI Dictionary
  2. MedlinePlus. Central venous catheters – ports
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Definition of central venous catheter – NCI Dictionary
  4. NHS. Treatment for chronic myeloid leukaemia
  5. Children’s Oncology Group. Long-Term Follow-Up Guidelines for Survivors of Childhood, Adolescent and Young Adult Cancers
  6. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2018. Fertility Preservation in Patients With Cancer: ASCO Clinical Practice Guideline Update
  7. National Cancer Institute. Immunotherapy Side Effects
  8. American Cancer Society. Typical Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (Except APL)
  9. NHS. Chemotherapy
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Recurrent Cancer: When Cancer Comes Back
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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