Hi,

I didnt want a port either at all. I did, and still do have strong
feelings about it. I really pushed to avoid one for a lot longer than
probably made sense. So, given that, it hasnt been as bad as I thought.
For the most part, it is very easy to ignore. There was an initial
adjustment period of getting used to it, but now I ignore it. I found
getting chemo to be easier in some respects, since no one has to go hunt
for a vein. I find the initial stick of the port to be sharper though. I
think the skin there is more sensitive for me than the arm. There is
numbing cream that I need to get. I think it will easy enough to use
since I know exactly where the port it. I am not on chemo at the moment,
so I need to go in once a month to get the port flushed.That is really
about it. The only thing I had any trouble with was initially getting
it. It was unclear who was to check up on the healing, take out the
stitches, etc. I went back and forth between the hospital and the cancer
center.

Oh, and I was informed at by one hospital that it would make scans
easier. The other hospital told me that they would NOT use the port at
all because the CT scan contrast was injected at too high a pressure and
they didnt want anything to potentially hurt the port. I have not used
it for scans. That might be something that you want to get straight
right up front from the people who put it in.

Good luck!

Chris

In article
<YlmKb.4934$1g41.171@twister01.bloor.is.net.cable.rogers.com>,

Hi:

I have a port for two and one half years.  IT is actually bet ter then
going through a vein and having arms similar to a druggy!  It is also
easier then having to go through being stabbed repeatedly through your
change of cycles.  I think the advantagae is for the port.  Although I
do not know anyone that wants to have chemo injected into their body, if
it must be, then lets get it the easiest most effecient way.

<< I really don't want a port. And I don't want chemo in my vein again as I'm
still experiencing problems from over 2 months ago.

Sorry to hear of the difficulties that you have been having.   Have you
explored alternative types of ports and/or pic lines?

I had a subcutaneous port (under the skin) and think it is better.  You can
take showers, swim without a problem.  Also, no tape, dressings to fool with.
(I'm allergic to a lot of tapes).  You will, however, get "stuck" everytime
they heparinize it, use it for blood draws or receive chemo.  I didn't consider
it to be particularly painful.  If I had to get another port, I would get an
under the skin one again.

My wife loves her port.  It is much more convenient and less
painful than jabbing for a vein.  However, be careful about
who accesses you.  If they don't have any experience with
ports, don't let them touch it.  Infection is a major
concern.  Proper accessing techniques will prevent infection
but it has to be done correctly (lots of betadine for
starters).

Don't fear the port.  From what you've said you should
welcome it! - Tony

Thanks everyone for your imput.

I get the port tomorrow. Not too happy about it, but I don't have any real
choice.

I also have chemo tomorrow. I usually get bad luck, so I'm imagining that
they won't actually be able to use the port tomorrow.

I bought some Emla cream. I didn't need a prescription here in Canada.

Thanks again!