A Port-a-Cath is an implantable central venous catheter portal.  It is usually placed in the lower side of the anterior clavicle and in front of the arm or abdominal wall.  The skin usually has a wound of 3-5 cm.  A bulge about the size of an NT$10 coin can be detected at the portal. 

Name of Medical Device

Port-a-Cath. 

Operation Opportunity

When patients need long-term and repeated drug injections, chemotherapy, or intravenous nutritional supplements. The benefits are avoiding repeated attempts to search for blood vessels for injection and reducing drug leakage.

Possible Side Effects

• It is normal that there may be a dragging sensation near the Port-a-Cath. 
• A small number of patients will have dizziness and other discomfort after surgery; usually rest can relieve the symptoms. 
• There will be slight pain in the wound after the operation.  Discuss with your doctor whether painkillers are needed as appropriate. 
• In a few cases, bleeding from the wound, infection, and even obstruction of the catheter may occur. 

Postoperative Care

• Do not take a bath or rub the wound before the wound completely heals, and keep the wound dry and clean. 
• About 7 days after surgery, the patient should return to the outpatient clinic for the doctor to inspect the wound and remove the stitches. If the stitches do not have to be taken out, surgical tape can be put on them until it falls off on its own. 
• The arm in which a Port-a-Cath is inserted should avoid excessive limb activity as much as possible.  In addition, it has no effect on daily life. 
• If it is left unused for a long time, it is still necessary to flush the Port-a-Cath at the hospital every month to avoid catheter obstruction. 
• If the wound is red, swollen, hot and painful or unilateral limb edema occurs, please immediately return to hospital for examination. 
• Before discharge from hospital, please reconfirm that you have been informed of the care of Port-a-Cath and its precautions. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor or nurse practitioner for relevant information. 
• If the purpose of treatment is achieved and the Port-a-Cath is no longer needed, the removal of the Port-a-Cath can be arranged at the cardiac surgery clinic after discussion with your doctor.