[Kevin J]

Re: PICC vs. port - looking for feedback

by Kevin J on Sat Feb 04, 2012 11:21 am

I also had some reverse flow issues (and the associated gymnastics that go with it) for a couple months after getting the port, but no problems since. The turning point seemed to be when they had a particularly difficult time accessing my port - they put in some type of "Drano" to clear the line and since then I have not had an issue. We theorized there was probaly some build up on the end of the catheter, perhaps from the initial procedure to install it. Pushing was no problem, but when checking the reverse flow, the build up sucked into the catheter and prevented the flow (kind of like when the chunks in a milk shake get stuck in the straw). I don't think this is dual port issue since the lines are separate, and actually extend to different lengths within the vein.

[suzierose]

Re: PICC vs. port - looking for feedback

by suzierose on Sun Feb 05, 2012 10:42 am

Hmmmmm,

Can't quite understand what 'reverse flow' means. I see what you are saying about chunks stuck in straw of milkshake. So, does reverse flow then mean because the shake can't get pass the chunks it 'reverse flows' back down inside of up the straw?

hmmmmm

[Kevin J]

Re: PICC vs. port - looking for feedback

by Kevin J on Sun Feb 05, 2012 2:47 pm

When accessing my port, they need to get a good flow both directions. Initially, they "push" fluid (saline solution and heparin) into the port to clear it. Then they "pull", to clear it of the fluids and make sure they have a blood return. I was interpreting "reverse flow" to be the pull portion. Consequently, if there was a bit of build up at the end of the catheter in the vein, it could be sucked back into the catheter and restrict flow, or act like a flap covering the end. One of the reasons we thought this might be the case was that the "Drano" seemed to clear up the problem (i.e., dissolved the build up), plus it only happened with one side of the port, the other never had any issues.

[Crorbach]

Re: PICC vs. port - looking for feedback

by Crorbach on Tue Dec 03, 2013 7:30 pm

Hello everyone,

I Will answer these questions for my wife.
She is 5'3", 120 lbs pounds and 53 years of age

She has had 11 pick lines and two ports in the past 5 years. Many had to be removed as most hospital stays will not allow you to leave with one. She has also had 4-6 central lines in her neck and groin area. Those are worse than getting a PICC or Port.

PICC lines are a snap to put in. So are the ports. She never fears either one. Sure you can tell the port is there but WHO CARES...!

She has no veins left. These are saving her life and pain!

Let's see, constant pain and anxiety every time they have to poke you many times(once an anesthesiologist took 17 times to find a vein before surgery including starting at her toes up her legs to her hands, wrists, and arms only to fail ALL 17 Times and gave up disgusted)

OR have a procedure done in 10-15 minutes and have a port and never worry about all of these other issues.

Get a port and call it a day...!

Hope you get over your fears or anxiety as these are nothing procedures and won't hinder your looks.

Be well all. Hope you all have a wonderful life .....pain free!

[Lin516]

Re: PICC vs. port - looking for feedback

by Lin516 on Tue Dec 31, 2013 11:04 pm

I highly recommend a port due to the maintenance, ease of use, and infection potential. PICC lines require weekly - 10 day dressing changes and cap changes which allow for greater potential of infection. Ports only require dressings with infusions and if the Huber needle is left in. PICC's are great for temporary use for infusion of a drug with poor venous access. Emphasis on "temporary". Ports are for the necessity of long term infusions and poor venous access.

[torimooney]

Re: PICC vs. port - looking for feedback

by torimooney on Sun Jan 05, 2014 2:34 pm

I've had a port for over a year. LOVE LOVE LOVE it. No more multiple painful sticks, now quick and easy Once it's healed after initial insertion under anesthesia, no limitations. Chemo nurses love it as much as I do.

[Chillybell]

Re: PICC vs. port - looking for feedback

by Chillybell on Fri Jul 31, 2015 12:22 pm

Thanks to the original poster of this question and to all who answered. I am going to ask for a port now because my veins are completely ruined due to chemo. One is hard and inflamed .... and I have only had one treatment! I have lots more to go including massive surgery. This was actually the easiest decision for me.

Grateful to have found people who understand.

Best wishes to you all.

Joelle