Port catheter (PAC)

A port catheter is a catheter (thin tube) with a reservoir that is implanted in a vein under the collarbone. This catheter is placed when you need to be poked often during your treatment over an extended period of time.

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Why a port catheter?

Through the port catheter, blood can be drawn and medication administered. This minimizes painful punctures. The port catheter remains in situ for the entire duration of your treatment. A special needle (Huber needle) is used to puncture the catheter.

A port catheter may also be used to administer a contrast agent during medical examinations (e.g., CT scan or MRI scan).

Benefits

  • Less pain
  • Superficial veins are spared
  • Puncture is easier, no need to search for a suitable vein all the time
  • Administered fluids and medications are immediately and significantly diluted

Placement

The placement of a portal catheter takes about 20 minutes. This can be done under general or local anesthesia in the day hospital. You may return home the day of placement. In children, however, the placement is done under general anesthesia.

The doctor places the port catheter under your skin through an incision in the chest. When the catheter is removed back it is done through the scar of this incision. The removal is also done under local anesthesia.

After insertion, the position of the catheter is checked by an ECG (heart monitor) or in specific cases by X-ray.

Aftercare

After insertion, it is best to avoid movements greater than a 90° angle with the arm on the side of the port catheter. After ten days you may move freely.

Departments

For more information on the placement of a portal catheter, contact the general and abdominal surgeons.
General and abdominal surgery

Plan your appointment

Call for an appointment 011 69 94 65