In July I found a lump and, thank goodness, it was quickly diagnosed and I was told that I have stage 2 HER2+ breast cancer, with one large tumour and two smaller ones snaking off it. So far I’ve had chemo (4 rounds of EC, followed by Taxol, Pertuzumab and Trastuzumab).
Right at the start of my treatment I had to have a PICC line put in. The PICC line has been great, but has to be cleaned on a weekly basis. As soon as my main chemo finished it was assumed that I would want the PICC removed so that I could go onto Trastuzumab injections and avoid weekly line care.
To be honest, I don’t want the PICC removed. My biggest concern about getting the injection is that I had major spinal surgery in 2017 and as a result I have an uncontrollable spasm in my legs. When it goes, I jump! I can’t predict it and I can’t stop it either. My senior cancer nurse doesn’t know this because each time I’m told that she’s coming to talk to me, she doesn’t.
I’ve done a bit of research and my line is good for a year. It should take me to the end of my Trastuzumab. The only possible issue is infection and I’m getting it cleaned every week. Does anyone have any advice or experience of keeping a PICC?
Hi and a very warm welcome to the online community
I don't know if it's possible to keep a PICC line for at least a year but I noticed that your post hadn't had any replies yet. Responding to you will 'bump' it back to the top of the discussions list where it'll be more easily seen.
While you're waiting for responses you could post in the ask a nurse section of the online community to ask about the possibility of keeping a PICC line.
Wishing you all the best
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