Port-a-Cath PAC

The placement of a port-a-cath (port) is a procedure that offers patients a greater comfort when they require repeated chemotherapy infusions. It consists in installing a device called an implantable chamber, which enables the administration of chemotherapy while preserving the veins. Here’s everything you need to know about the implantable chamber and how it works.

What is the insertion of a portacath?

This procedure involves in the placement of an implantable chamber, also known as a Port-a-Cath (PAC). This technique is used to administer regular infusions, making your chemotherapy treatment more comfortable. In addition to chemotherapy, the implantable chamber can also be used for other intravenous treatments.

The implantable chamber or port-a-cath is a small box that is inserted under your skin. This small device is connected to a large deep vein through a catheter. There are two possible locations: either the device is placed on the upper right side of the chest or it is positioned in the forearm. The size of the implantable chamber depends on its location, with the device placed in the forearm generally being smaller than the one placed in the chest. One of the main advantages of the PAC is that since the small box is implanted under the skin, it cannot be seen.

Another advantage of this technique is that it helps preserve your veins. Frequent administration of chemotherapy can damage the veins and cause painful sensations. With this procedure, instead of directly puncturing the veins, the medications pass through the small box and then enter the veins. Thanks to the implantable chamber, the administration of medications is less painful, allowing you to better preserve the veins in your body.

Regarding the use of the implantable chamber for chemotherapy, approximately 60 minutes before using the device during each chemotherapy session, your oncologist will use an anesthetic product because a puncture will need to be performed. The principle is simple: Hubert needles are used to puncture the reservoir of the device and gain access to the vein.

How much does placing a port-a-carth cost?

The setup of a chemotherapy site starts at 1’000 USD. This particular procedure is conducted in an outpatient setting, eliminating the need for hospitalization and allowing patients to return home promptly. If you would like to obtain further details, please feel free to reach out to us without any hesitation.

How is a portacath placed?

Depending on the situation, the implantable chamber or portacath PAC can be placed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. The procedure does not last more than 60 minutes.

To place the implantable chamber, the surgeon makes an incision to detach the skin, allowing the device to be placed under the skin in contact with the muscle. Subsequently, the surgeon performs a dissection of the vein to place the catheter, with one end of the catheter connected to the vein and the other end attached to the chamber.

Once the device is in place, the surgeon concludes the procedure by suturing the incision with absorbable sutures.

Inserting a portacath for a chemotherapy : what are the postoperative instructions?

After the procedure, a chest X-ray will need to be performed to verify that the catheter has been properly placed and that there have been no issues related to the procedure.

After the operation, you may experience some pain, especially in the operated area. This is completely normal, and the surgeon can prescribe conventional painkillers to alleviate the pain. These sensations will completely disappear after a few weeks following your discharge from the clinic.

Once your chemotherapy treatment is completed, it will be possible to undergo a surgical procedure to remove the catheter and the implantable chamber. This is a simple and quick operation, which is most often performed under local anesthesia.

Hospitalization is brief, usually not exceeding one day for this procedure.

What are the possible complications of the procedure?

The risks of complications associated with this procedure are quite rare. It is a technique that is now perfectly mastered and commonly used in chemotherapy. However, like any surgical procedure, regardless of its complexity, complications can occur. One of the risks of this procedure is pneumothorax, which is the presence of air in the pleural cavity. This phenomenon needs to be quickly treated by evacuating the air, for example, by using a drain. A chest X-ray will help detect such problems after the operation.

Among the other risks of the procedure are anesthesia-related issues and catheter infection. If these occur, your surgeon will prescribe a medical treatment that should resolve the problem. If the situation does not improve, an intervention will be performed to remove the catheter. Before the operation, you should discuss the potential risks of the procedure with your oncologist and ask any questions that come to mind.

Contact and request for a quote for a portacath placement

When it comes to planning and coordinating your stay in Tunisia, placing your trust in a distinguished and well-versed agency is paramount. TMT stands out among the industry professionals as a reliable and highly experienced option for ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience during your time in Tunisia. We will provide comprehensive support throughout the process of compiling your documentation and arranging your stay. Our dedicated team is available to assist you and offer guidance for all the necessary procedures. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for further details and to receive a complimentary quote without any obligations.