port versus hickman line or picc

I had been wondering how you were getting on.  Its a real shame it is still giving you grief as when Porta-catheters work they are a god send and almost pain free to access.  I havent had any experience of any other type of line so I cant help with that but I do hope that whatever you decide works and makes things easier for you xxx

Thanks Chrissi,

It has never given any blood so I have at leasr 2 needles every time. Yesterday I had to have 4 novocaine injections to numb the area so 5 in all. they didn't bother to ask for a blood test! The onco just rang and I asked for the port to go but he said I need it. I thought the chemo was 24 times but it is 30. So p****d off! I wish I never had it.

Jen Xx

Hi Jen......My portacath doesn't want to give blood either, that seems to be the norm with them but after a while once I am up and moving about they do get some back when it gets flushed about 2 hours into treatment, which is no good when blood is needed to start off with but I have one tiny vein left that will give them blood, I am so glad I had my portacath and I find it a god send and painless to use. I have had a hickman in the past and yes that did give blood but for me having the line hanging out the right side of my chest and a stoma bag on my left lower stomach very uncomfortable to sleep. They also tried to put in a PICC line but my veins wouldn't take it.  All 3 were done under a local...love Carol x

Ouch Carol. you are brave, they don't do locals on me , I need diazepam to have a scan!! I wish my port was painless. Do you think it depends on who does it?

Love jen XX