PROCEDURE: Port Removal
DATE:
CLINICAL INDICATION: Patient with infected right chest port.
OPERATING PHYSICIANS: , MD (Attending)/, MD (Fellow)
MEDICATIONS: Fentanyl and Versed
CONTRAST: None
FLUOROSCOPY TIME: 0 minutes
COMPLICATIONS: None
PROCEDURE: After written and informed consent was obtained, the patient was placed supine on the procedure table. The upper chest and neck were prepped and draped in standard sterile fashion. The skin and subcutaneous tissues surrounding the port were anesthetized with 2% lidocaine with epinephrine. A 2 cm skin incision was made with a #15 blade. Blunt dissection was used to mobilize the port and its catheter. The catheter was retracted from the vein and hemostasis was obtained with manual compression. The port was then easily removed. The incision was closed with interrupted 3-0 Vicryl sutures. Steri-Strips, and a sterile dressing were applied. The patient tolerated the procedure well without any immediate complications.
FINDINGS: Scout image demonstrates a right chest port, completely removed on the post-procedure image.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a portacath and why is it removed?
A portacath, or port, is a small medical device implanted under the skin to provide easier access to veins for patients who need frequent or long-term intravenous therapy. It is removed when it is no longer needed, becomes infected, or if there are complications associated with its use.
Portacath removal is usually performed under local anesthesia. The area is sterilized, and a small incision is made to access the port. The port and catheter are gently dissected out, the catheter is retracted from the vein, and the incision is closed with sutures. The procedure is typically quick and has a low risk of complications.
What medications are used during port removal?
During port removal, medications such as Fentanyl and Versed are often used to manage pain and provide sedation. Local anesthetics like lidocaine with epinephrine are also applied to numb the area and minimize bleeding during the procedure.
Are there any complications associated with port removal?
Port removal is generally safe, with minimal risk of complications. However, potential issues could include bleeding, infection, or damage to nearby structures. In most cases, complications are rare, especially when performed by experienced medical professionals.
How should patients care for the incision site after port removal?
After port removal, patients should keep the incision site clean and dry. Steri-Strips and a sterile dressing are applied to aid healing. Patients should monitor for signs of infection like redness, swelling, or discharge and follow their doctor’s instructions for wound care and activity restrictions.
What are the signs of infection in a portacath?
Signs of a portacath infection may include redness, swelling, warmth, pain at the port site, fever, or discharge. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to contact a healthcare provider promptly for evaluation and treatment.
Why is fluroscopy not used during port removal?
Fluoroscopy is not typically needed for port removal because the procedure involves a straightforward surgical technique without the need for real-time imaging. The port and catheter are manually accessed and removed through a small incision.