Infusion Port Placement and Removal

If you need to have blood drawn or receive intravenous (IV) medicines frequently, the repeated needle sticks can be painful and damaging to your veins. But there is an alternative: The interventional radiologists at RIA Endovascular offer infusion port placement and removal at the office in Greenwood Village, Colorado. To learn more about how an infusion port can make you more comfortable while you receive necessary medications, reach out to the nearest office or book an appointment online today.

Do I need an infusion port?

Your provider may recommend an infusion port if you have a condition that often requires IV medicines, blood draws, or both. Infusion ports can also help deliver potent medications into central veins that can dilute them so your smaller veins can handle them.

The infusion port is a small medical device placed under your skin and connected via a flexible catheter to a vein. Because the port is made of a tough material that self-seals after being punctured, it takes the burden of repeated access better than vein walls.

How do I prepare before getting an infusion port?

Before your procedure, let your provider know about all of your medications and any allergies. You should also:

• Avoid eating or drinking eight hours before your procedure.
• Discuss any herbal supplements you take
• Arrange a ride home afterward

If you know or suspect you might be pregnant, be sure to inform your provider.

Medicare and most private insurance companies cover port placement, so RIA Endovascular can also seek authorization before your procedure.

What can I expect during an infusion port placement?

You need to remove the clothing above your waist and wear a gown. You then lie on a fluoroscopy table that allows the radiologists to perform real-time X-ray imaging, precisely placing the catheter in a vein first.

Once this is in place, the interventional radiologist connects it to the port and places it beneath your skin. They close the incision and then monitor you in a recovery room.

What is recovery like after getting an infusion port?

It’s typical to have some bruising, swelling, or tenderness after your procedure, and your provider can recommend over-the-counter (OTC) medications to help.

The provider gives you complete aftercare instructions, which may include needing to keep the surgery wound covered until it is fully healed. Avoid showering, swimming, or any other activities that would immerse the area, and follow their advice on when you can safely resume your routine.

To learn more about how an infusion port can increase your comfort and aid your health care providers in treating you, reach out to RIA Endovascular by phone or online today.