Reliable Long-Term Access for Ongoing Treatments

A port, also known as a port-a-catheter, is a small medical device placed under the skin to provide long-term venous access for patients undergoing repeated treatments such as chemotherapy, blood draws, or IV medications.

How It Works

Using ultrasound and fluoroscopy (X-ray imaging) for guidance, our interventional radiologists:

🔹 Make a small incision to insert a soft catheter into a large central vein (usually in the chest).
🔹 Attach the catheter to a small port reservoir, which is placed just beneath the skin.
🔹 Secure and test the port to ensure proper function for safe, repeated access.
🔹 Close the incision with sutures or surgical glue—typically leaving a small, discreet bump under the skin.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation, and most patients go home the same day.

Why Is This Procedure Done?

• To provide easy, long-term access for chemotherapy or medication infusions
• To reduce the need for repeated needle sticks and preserve veins
• To allow quick and reliable access for blood draws and IV therapies
• To improve patient comfort and quality of life during ongoing treatment