Chemoport Insertion Procedure: Everything You Should Know
What is Chemoport Insertion Procedure?
Chemoport, or simply ‘port’, is a small medical appliance that is installed beneath the skin. It allows healthcare professionals & doctors to easily access your bloodstream and is often used to administer chemotherapy drugs, draw blood, or provide other treatments. The chemoport insertion procedure is typically performed by a vascular surgeon and is often a short, outpatient procedure.
Chemoport Insertion Surgery: When and to Whom is it Required?
A chemoport is primarily recommended for patients who require prolonged intravenous medication administration, with chemotherapy being a key example. Regular intravenous access can be challenging, especially for patients with small or brittle veins. Moreover, some chemotherapy drugs can cause harm to smaller veins or the skin, making alternative access points like a chemoport invaluable.
Dr. Sumit Kapadia, a well-known vascular surgeon, suggests that a chemoport can significantly enhance patient comfort during treatment. It can reduce the number of needle sticks required and provide a stable and reliable avenue for medication delivery, thus reducing stress and anxiety often associated with chemotherapy treatments.
Chemoport Insertion Surgery: When and to Whom is it Required?
A chemoport is comprised of three main components: the portal, the septum, and the catheter. The portal is a reservoir, often made of plastic or metal, implanted under the skin. The septum, a part of the portal, is made from self-sealing rubber material, allowing needles to pass through it numerous times without causing damage. The catheter is a thin, flexible tube that connects the port to a large central vein that leads to your heart.
As for safety, a question that patients often ask Dr. Sumit Kapadia is: “Is a chemo port safe?” The answer, in most cases, is a resounding yes. The chemoport insertion procedure is considered a safe and routinely performed procedure with minimal serious complications. However, as with any surgical procedure, some risk exists, and this will be thoroughly discussed prior to the procedure.
Chemoport Insertion Cost in India
The cost of chemoport insertion varies widely in India, depending on the hospital, the expertise of the vascular surgeon, and the specific circumstances of the patient. On average, the procedure can cost anywhere from INR 50,000 to INR 1,00,000. While this may seem like a significant investment, it’s important to consider the comfort, convenience, and safety benefits that a chemoport can provide.
The cost of chemoport insertion can vary widely depending on multiple factors including the doctor, location, and specific patient requirements. As a highly experienced and reputed vascular surgeon, Dr. Sumit Kapadia, is well-versed in providing high-quality care tailored to the patient’s specific needs and budget. He ensures that his patients are well-informed about the procedure costs upfront, allowing them to make informed decisions about their treatment plan. It’s advisable to discuss the cost with your doctor & insurance company to understand the extent of coverage for the chemoport insertion procedure.
Also Read: The Role of Vascular Surgeons in Dialysis Patients
What Do You Need To Know About Chemoport?
A chemoport is comprised of three main components: the portal, the septum, and the catheter. The portal is a reservoir, often made of plastic or metal, implanted under the skin. The septum, a part of the portal, is made from self-sealing rubber material, allowing needles to pass through it numerous times without causing damage. The catheter is a thin, flexible tube that connects the port to a large central vein that leads to your heart.
As for safety, a question that patients often ask Dr. Sumit Kapadia is: “Is a chemo port safe?” The answer, in most cases, is a resounding yes. The chemoport insertion procedure is considered a safe and routinely performed procedure with minimal serious complications. However, as with any surgical procedure, some risk exists, and this will be thoroughly discussed prior to the procedure.
How to Prepare for Chemoport Insertion Surgery?
Dr. Sumit Kapadia provides comprehensive guidelines to his patients on how to prepare for a chemoport insertion procedure. This often involves fasting (avoiding food and drink) for a few hours prior to the surgery. Some medications might need to be temporarily stopped or adjusted, so it is important to provide the doctor / vascular surgeon with a complete list of all the medications you are taking. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and even dietary supplements.
Pre-procedure discussions and evaluations with Dr. Sumit Kapadia will include an assessment of your overall health, explanation of the procedure, and its benefits and risks. Often a neck doppler or ultrasound is required to assess the size of the neck veins to be utilised for chemoport. This is an ideal time to clarify any doubts or concerns about the chemoport insertion procedure.
How is chemoport placed?
Usually, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia or mild sedation, in a dedicated sterile Operation theatre.
The neck vein is punctured under doppler guidance and a guide wire is passed till the heart. The catheter is passed over the wire and the position of the tip is checked under an X-ray or C-Arm. The other end of the catheter tunnelled beneath the collar bone and is connected to the portal, which is then implanted beneath the skin through a small incision.
Care of the Chemoport
After the chemoport insertion procedure, Dr. Sumit Kapadia and his vascular doctors team will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the chemoport and the skin around it. It is of utmost importance to keep this area clean and dry to prevent any potential infections.
Additionally, you should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for a period of time as directed by Dr. Sumit. This helps ensure the chemoport remains in place and reduces the risk of any post-surgical complications.
Remember, regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Sumit Kapadia or your treating doctor will be scheduled to monitor your chemoport and ensure it is functioning correctly and there are no associated complications
Conclusion:
Chemoport insertion can play a crucial role in easing the process of chemotherapy for patients, enhancing their comfort, and ensuring efficient and safe delivery of medications. Dr. Sumit Kapadia, with his vast expertise in vascular surgery, is committed to offering the highest standard of care to his patients. He guides his patients through every step of the process, ensuring they are well-prepared for the procedure, fully informed about the care and maintenance of the chemoport, and aware of the costs involved.
In conclusion, while chemoport insertion is a commonly performed and safe procedure, patients should have a clear understanding of the process, benefits, potential complications, and the costs involved. Always remember that open communication with your doctor in this case, Dr. Sumit Kapadia, is key to ensuring optimal outcomes.
