Andrea Posted May 2, 2005 Share Posted May 2, 2005 Hi. One of my best friend's mom was just diagnosed with ovarian cancer. They want to put in a pic instead of a port cath for chemo b/c they said there is less chance of an embolism and does not require anasthesia. My own experience is from my mom and her port cath. I know she liked it. I am just curious if anyone here has a pic for chemo; or if anyone has knowledge of the difference. Thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ry Posted May 2, 2005 Share Posted May 2, 2005 Well the port would be best but it sounds like they have a sound reason for using the picc line instead. Ports being under the skin have a lower risk of infection. Picc lines are outside and are accessed on the upper arm. They need care in that the dressing must be changed weekly etc whereas with a port it just needs to be flushed periodically when not in use. Here's my helpful hint: make sure they stitch the picc line to her arm. If not, they are easily caught and pulled and then you have to have it put in all over again. I had a picc line for an infection last year and found out the hard way why they should be stitched in place. I wish her luck! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Donna G Posted May 3, 2005 Share Posted May 3, 2005 Can't draw blood work from a PICC, can from an accessed port. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chloesmom Posted May 3, 2005 Share Posted May 3, 2005 I never have had either a port or a picc, but when I was going to get chemo, my onc said that if the veins became an issue, they would put in a picc. It's more temporary than a port, more easily installed and removed, and yes, it does require more care, but it is not intended to be there for months and months and months like a port can be. I would guess that the picc is the choice when they know there is a definate end in sight for chemo, and not much chance of starting it again any time soon. Cindy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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