What is a VAD or Porta Cath?

I have a power port. Aside from a bit of tenderness from the stiches in the days following the implant I hardly know its there. However driving is a slight problem since mine didn't work on the right side of my chest and had to be moved to the left and the seatbelt puts uncomfortable pressure on it. Though I rarely drive anymore.

Sorry accidently hit something

I thought it was tender for a week. It is less noticeable after that time. They do make pillows to attach to your seat belt to cover it while driving.

I had min in a week ago, a bit tender but not painful. I love the pillow seat belt idea, I gotta get one. My understanding is that even some inconvenience with the port is better than reusing veins again and again for chemo.

Had a power port for about 18 months
Wasn't a painful procedure my doctor just wanted nurses to be masked when accessing it for my chemo treatments to prevent me from infections

I was out so no pain during procedure or after. Easy to keep clean and covered during showers. Worth it!

It is painless but however need extra care. My experience 8 years ago is that it itches sometimes in the area. The area need to be protected when taking showers. It is crucial that you protect the area and prevent it from becoming infected. Also avoid it being tugged by clothing to prevent ripping the stitch and cause bleeding. I’m not too sure, but I think I had to inject the catheter occasionally with a solution to prevent blood clots.

Hi Charles,
Like Claire, I was out for the placement, though awake and present when a surgical resident removed it. Both were painless. Never had a problem with it. As Frank P. advises, keep the area clean, which was easy and the nurses checked it on every visit. You won't have a problem.

They've got the process down to a science...:) Too corny?

Anyway, best wishes and enjoy every day.

Frank D.

Not corny and they indeed do; that's partly why SCT is so much safer than it used to be!
C

Not painful. You can feel it if you turn your neck or wear the seat belt in the car, but it doesn’t hurt.