Administering Chemo 2nd Time around

Is there any reason you think a Hickman line is unsuitable?? What about a PICC or a Port ? Best wishes , whatever happens. X

Hello Puzzler

I was told a Hickman could only be in 3 weeks at a time and my chemo will start of 3 weekly. I really don't know the options yet or enough about them as last time it was quite straight forward. I was hoping to get a bit of pre knowledge before I get my treatment plan in 2 weeks time xx

Hi 

Sorry to read you have to go through this again 

My wife had the same Groshong (very similar to Hickman) chest iv central line if for 15 months during 6 x chemo and 18 x 3 weekly Herceptin without any problems at all. That was back when herceptin wasn't a sub cut injection.

Having said that a PICC line is fitted mid way on the upper arm so misses all the lower hand / arm veins.

You can find further detailed info about all these ways of administering chemo clicking this link.

Ask your oncologist which type they use as the iv delivery method can vary from one area to another, but it sounds like a chest iv line would be the better option in your case ?

Take care, G n' J

Hi ,

so sorry you find yourself here again, hope it can readily be successfully treated for you. 

I agree with George/ , daughter too had her Hickman line in for some months while having treatment before, during and after her donor bone marrow transplant. It didn’t even need flushing that often. Yes it carries a risk of infection, but she was lucky and hers was fine for quite some months. After 7 years of treatments her hand and arm veins were shot. 
A port may well be a great answer too.

hugs xxx

I had a port. It was brilliant. I have a tiny scar on my collarbone but you'd have to be looking to notice it. Each time it was needed I put a local anaesthetic patch over it an hour before and the nurses just peeled off the centre and straight in.....pain free. There is nothing external so no catching in clothing, showering is easy and nothing has to be flushed out. In my area everyone has one.

More recently I needed a picc line for intravenous antibiotics.....so I can compare but there is no comparison. Anyone offered a port should take up the offer.

Thank you so much for the advice. I will be armed with lots of questions now. Have a great day xxx

Good morning

Thank you for your reply. That looks like a great option. Have a great day xx

Thank you for your reply. I feel much more confident now going forward Have a great day xx