A chemo port is a device that is surgically implanted under the skin and connected to a vein through a flexible tube. It can make common procedures during cancer treatment, such as receiving medications, safer and more comfortable.
Because the port provides direct access to a vein, it can be used for treatments and procedures that may need to be repeated frequently. This can be especially helpful during longer courses of treatment.
However, a chemo port can also be associated with certain complications. For this reason, the benefits and possible risks of having one placed should be discussed carefully with a doctor.
In general, placement of a chemo port may be recommended to:
- Make it easier to administer medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, or IV fluids;
- Help with blood sample collection, especially when blood tests are needed frequently;
- Reduce the risk of complications from irritating medications, such as tissue damage near the administration site;
- Provide nutrition directly through a vein, known as parenteral nutrition, in some cases;
- Provide greater comfort, especially during long-term treatment.
However, this type of catheter is also associated with possible risks, including infection of the device, thrombosis in the vein where it was placed, catheter breakage, or malfunction of the system. Therefore, chemo port placement should be discussed in detail with a doctor.