Implanted Port: Before Your Procedure
What is an implanted port?
An implanted port is a type of central venous catheter, or central venous line, that is used to put medicine, blood, nutrients, or fluids directly into your blood. It can also be used to draw blood for tests. The port makes doing these things more comfortable for you. You may hear it called an implanted venous access device (IVAD), a port-a-cath, or a central line. People can have a port for weeks, months, or longer.
Fluid goes into the port through a special needle called a Huber needle. You may feel a bit of discomfort when the needle goes into the port. The Huber needle may stay in the port for a short time so the port can be used. When the port is not being used, the Huber needle is removed.
How do you prepare for the procedure?
Procedures can be stressful. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for your procedure.
Preparing for the procedure
- Be sure you have someone to take you home. Anesthesia and pain medicine will make it unsafe for you to drive or get home on your own.
- Understand exactly what procedure is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options.
- If you take a medicine that prevents blood clots, your doctor may tell you to stop taking it before your procedure. Or your doctor may tell you to keep taking it. (These medicines include aspirin and other blood thinners.) Make sure that you understand exactly what your doctor wants you to do.
- Tell your doctor ALL the medicines and natural health products you take. Some may increase the risk of problems during your procedure. Your doctor will tell you if you should stop taking any of them before the procedure and how soon to do it.
- Make sure your doctor and the hospital have a copy of your advance care plan. If you don't have one, you may want to prepare one. It lets others know your health care wishes. It's a good thing to have before any type of surgery or procedure.
What happens on the day of the procedure?
- Follow the instructions exactly about when to stop eating and drinking, or your procedure may be cancelled. If your doctor has instructed you to take your medicines on the day of the procedure, please do so using only a sip of water.
- Take a bath or shower before you come in for your procedure. Do not apply lotions, perfumes, deodorants, or nail polish.
- Remove all jewellery, piercings, and contact lenses.
- Leave your valuables at home.
At the hospital or surgery centre
Bring a picture ID.
A small tube (IV) may be placed in a vein, to give you fluids and medicine to help you relax.
You will be kept comfortable and safe by your healthcare provider. The anesthesia may range from making you fully asleep to simply numbing the area being worked on. This will depend on the procedure you are having, as well as a discussion between your doctor, the anesthesia provider, and you.
The procedure will take about 1 hour.
After the procedure, the nurse will check to be sure you are stable and comfortable. It is important for you to tell your doctor and nurse how you feel and ask questions about any concerns you may have.
When should you call your doctor?
- You have questions or concerns.
- You don't understand how to prepare for your procedure.
- You become ill before the procedure (such as fever, flu, or a cold).
- You need to reschedule or have changed your mind about having the procedure.
Adaptation Date: 2/28/2022
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services
