Oncology Treatments in Richmond, VA | Richmond Vascular Center

What to Know

Cancer patients undergoing intermittent or long-term IV therapy that uses frequent medication injections or infusions are ideal candidates for the placement of a port. The multiple IV punctures required for these treatments not only cause discomfort but can damage veins in the arm or hand, making access more difficult over time.

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Port-A-Cath Placement Procedure

Typically placed beneath the skin of the upper chest, a port-a-cath is a small vascular access device (about the size of a quarter in diameter) with a hollow space inside sealed by a soft top. Attached to each port is a small flexible tube known as a catheter that runs directly into a vein usually in the side of the neck and terminates in a large vein in the chest. Ports are accessed via a special needle that pierces the soft top. This allows the administration of fluids and medications, and the withdrawal of blood samples without having to puncture veins directly. The small incisions made during the procedure are closed with dissolvable stitches and surgical glue.

Quicker. Safer. Superior.

The experts at Richmond Vascular Center are passionate about providing high-quality, life-changing patient care. The placement of a port at our outpatient facility has numerous benefits, including:

Lifestyle improvements. Port-a-caths permit you to go about your normal activities, like showering, swimming, jogging, and playing with your children.
Permanence. A port-a-cath can remain for as long as a physician determines it is needed.
Increased privacy and appearance. Port-a-caths are small and can easily be hidden from view as there is no exposed device. Because port-a-caths are typically placed in the chest, there is no potential for the bruised arms associated with multiple needle punctures.
Long-term health. Port-a-cath usage reduces the likelihood of damage to veins in the arm and hands.

Sharing knowledge. Empowering Patients.

Patients receive localized anesthesia during the placement of a port. In this case, patients are awake and comfortable during the procedure. Intravenous pain medications are also available as needed to assist throughout the process. At Richmond Vascular Center, our goal is to ensure that each patient has a pleasant experience with less risk, less pain, and less cost.

It is common for the incision site of a port-a-cath placement procedure to feel sore. It may take several weeks to completely heal. Over the counter pain medications such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen are recommended to ease symptoms during this time.

At Richmond Vascular Center, our patient-focused staff works to ensure that all referrals and authorizations are in place prior to your first visit.