Chemo-Port Placement

Reliable Venous Access for Cancer Treatment

A chemo-port (implantable venous access port) is a small device placed completely beneath the skin that allows safe, reliable access to the bloodstream for chemotherapy, immunotherapy, blood draws, and other treatments. Ports are designed to protect your veins, reduce repeated needle sticks, and make ongoing treatment more comfortable.

Port placement is a short, planned procedure and is typically performed as same-day surgery. We work very closely with the Cancer Clinic and other oncologists in Bryan/College Station. We can typically schedule your initial appointment within a day or two.

The Port Placement Procedure

Chemo-port placement is performed in the operating room under sterile conditions and usually takes about 15 minutes.

The port and catheter are placed entirely under the skin
The catheter is guided into a large central vein
There are no external tubes or lines
The procedure is done on an outpatient basis

Patients go home the same day.

Left-Sided vs. Right-Sided Port Placement

Ports can be placed on the left or right side of the chest, depending on clinical factors such as:

Planned cancer treatment
Prior surgeries or radiation
Existing devices or vascular anatomy

The safest and most appropriate side is determined based on your individual situation.

Using the Port

In most cases, the port can be used immediately after placement. This allows chemotherapy or other treatments to begin without delay once placement is complete. There is a separate needle with tubing that is used to access the port through the skin. This needle is removed when your infusion is complete.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery after port placement is typically very straightforward.

Incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches and covered with surgical glue
No wound care is required
There are no external dressings
No special activity restrictions are usually needed

The entire device is beneath the skin, and there is no daily care required by the patient.

Timing of Port Placement

Chemo-port placement is a scheduled procedure and is not performed on the day of your initial surgical consultation. This allows for proper planning and coordination with your oncology team.

Port Removal After Treatment

Once cancer treatment is complete and the port is no longer needed, it can be removed in the clinic under local anesthesia. Port removal is typically quick and well tolerated, without the need for general anesthesia or an operating room.

A Simple, Low-Maintenance Solution

Chemo-ports are designed to make cancer treatment easier, safer, and more comfortable. With minimal recovery time, no daily maintenance, and reliable long-term access, ports allow patients to focus on treatment and healing rather than logistics.