Should I get a port?

@bocabird
Thanks for commenting. You must be thin if you have a big bump! Glad you are OK

I have bought shirt front dresses for easy access to my port. I have always said that if I’m going to the slaughter, I’m going well dressed! The nurses always comment on how nice I look.
I wrote everything down in a journal as it happened, so that I could remember the routine each time afterwards. I kept this up throughout the time so I could talk to my oncologist with meaningful information. I kept a record each day of my weight, temperature and symptoms. It’s interesting to look back on now!
All the best for your infusions. Always remember, there is light at the end of the tunnel. It is going to end. Keep that date in your brain, you will get there!

Wow! You do look great!Thank you for the inspiration.

@hlthcr2000
During treatment I was always in a state of freezing- often shivering badly, maybe triggered by the meds, the hospital
was also cold, cold air blowing right on my head, so I covered it all the time, I showed up with an electric blanket and wore 2 or 3 layers of clothes to feel somewhat comfortable-
it could be over 90F outside but inside the building the temperature felt very cold, chemo caused so many changes..........

@jenelleseaman
Your dress even matched the chair! Classy!

I had 5 rounds of cisplatin/keytruda weekly, and then a subsequent 17 Keytruda infusion every 3 weeks over the last year; I did not have a port and was not given the option. Well, my cancer has spread and I will soon be starting a regimen of keytruda/carboplatin/taxol/avastin every 3 weeks for 6 cycles followed by continuing the keytruda/avastin every 3 weeks. I am considering staying with IV catheter, but I am also flirting with the idea of a port.

What have your experiences been with therapy for recurrent disease in IV vs port?

I have had recurrent disease for 16 years. I have had a port for 10 years, and I have never regretted it. I have heard stories of bad experiences, but that has not been the case for me. I have been very careful and looked after my port with regular flushing when not being used for chemotherapy.
At the moment I’m on a protocol that is 3consecutive days of infusions, 18 days break. The nurses leave the cannula attached so days 2 and 3 are easier.
I can use my hands to do things while I’m in the chair. I’m not worried about it being knocked.
I know what I’d do.

@jenelleseaman
Thanks- yes I followed advice of those here and got a port. My only comment to the provider is the idea needs to be introduced early in treatment- not right before infusions are scheduled. Janelle, I’m sure I speak for others here- you are in our thoughts and prayers. You are a true hero.

@whnpinthemaking I have never had an IV catheter, but it looks like they have some limitations and drawbacks and are intended for short-term use. If it were me, I’d talk to my provider about a port!

I am on my 4th taxol/carbo treatment. Opted for no port as my treatments are every 21 days
They use ultrasound to find a good vein and I have had no problems. I also am 3 weeks post op complete hysterectomy diagnosed with ovarian & peritoneal cancer. Tumors removed and was given Hi-Pec treatment in abdomen
Will finish 3 more cycles and should be in remission
To me the port felt like one more thing to worry about
But I’ve been on fast track with this since Dec 15.
Good Luck to you whatever you decide.