Placement and use of Long Term Venous Access Devices and Implantable Ports for Chemotherapy Administration :
Venous access devices that can be implanted under the skin were introduced in 1982. They allow medications to be delivered directly into larger veins, are less likely to clot, and can be left in for long periods. Central venous access devices are small, flexible tubes placed in large veins for people who require frequent access to the bloodstream.
- Central venous access devices are often referred to as venous access ports or catheters, because they allow frequent access to the veins without deep needle sticks.
- Placement is usually in one of the large veins of the chest or neck, although placement can also be in the groin, if necessary.
- Venous access devices typically remain in place for long periods: weeks, months, or even longer.
Implantable ports are sometimes called portacaths or subcutaneous ports. You can have chemotherapy and other drugs through the port. It can stay in place until all your chemotherapy treatment is finished. A nurse or doctor will put in your port, usually using a local anaesthetic.
