Picc line

I was encouraged to have a line put in as chemo is harsh on veins. However, as I'm HER2 + and will have herceptin and perjeta for 12 months, I have a port rather than PICC line. The actual line is the same but the port is like a button under the skin so nothing on the outside to have to keep dry or risk getting infected. I can shower as normal, swim and don't have to go every week for flush & dressings changed. Basically, once it's in, you forget it! It may be a little more complex to put in than a PICC but it was done under local anesthetic and I didn't feel a thing. I'm glad I have it and would recommend a port if it is offered.

Exactly the same for me as well, also HER2+ and I also have a port, I am very happy with it too! 

I had a picc line, put in under local. It has to be flushed every 7-10 days but I actually felt safer seeing them every week. Mine was very comfortable, one particular nurse did the dressings so well and that helped. No problems with inflammation or infection and all your bloods and treatment from the line. I had it removed after chemo as my Herceptin was done by injection into my thigh. I can barely see the scar now. I would say beg for a line!!

Hi

i had a picc line fitted 7 months ago and I have been plzd that I did. Every time I go for weekly chemo, bloods or line flush I see other that don’t have a picc line having issues with getting a good vein. It is a pain going weekly to get it flushed but I need to go anyway for bloods weekly so they do it all at the same time. Showering can be a little pain as I need to wear the plastic sleeve but the pros outweigh the cons for me. Good luck with whatever u decide xx

Hi I had a picc line fitted in November I have had no problems with it,I’m on weekly chemo so it’s no problem getting flushed every week.you wear a tubular bandage over it during the day to stop it catching on anything.

good luck