Understanding Chemoport Placement Shivamogga Oncology: Procedure, Benefits, and Recovery

December 2, 2025

Dr Guruchanna B
MS, MCh (TMH. Mumbai)., FMAS Consultant Surgical oncologist

Cancer treatment has seen significant strides in the last few decades. Medical and diagnostic innovations have paved the way for a number of successful stories in cancer treatment. One such technological enhancement that has helped millions of patients worldwide is the chemoport. Understanding this device and how it helps in cancer treatment can certainly help erase anxiety and make the journey of fighting cancer comfortable.

Chemoport, over the last few years, has emerged as a saviour vehicle in the fight against cancer. This treatment methodology has enhanced treatment delivery and minimized patient discomfort to a great extent. 

What is Chemo Port?

So, what is a chemoport? In simple terms, a chemoport is an implantable venous access medical device that provides a direct and reliable pathway into the bloodstream. Its main function is to draw blood samples, administer chemotherapy drugs, and provide nutritional support to patients without the need for any painful needle insertion. The port can remain functional for a long period of time, ensuring the patient receives uninterrupted treatment support for years.

Chemoport primarily features two components: a reservoir and a soft, flexible catheter tube. The reservoir is made of titanium or medical-grade plastic that usually sits on the upper chest area( BENEATH THE SKIN), while the catheter tube extends to the large vein leading to the heart.

Why Oncologists Recommend Chemoport Placement

One primary advantage is the protection of peripheral veins. Chemotherapy drugs can be harsh, irritating, and may damage ( thrombose)smaller veins in the arms and hands. Repeated needle sticks and infusions through these veins lead to pain, scarring, and eventually make it hard or impossible to find usable veins. Additionally, any minute dislodgement can cause the extravasation of these potent drugs, leading to skin necrosis. A port delivers medications directly into larger vessels, where blood flow absorbs the medication.

This method also reduces discomfort and significantly improves the treatment experience. Many patients fear needle sticks, especially when their veins become hard to access. With a port, doctors can access the device through the skin using a special non-coring needle, which most patients find less /no painful than traditional IV placement.

One of the biggest benefits of a chemoport is that it can be used for multiple purposes beyond chemotherapy. Blood draws, CT contrast administration, antibiotics, pain medications, and nutritional support can all be delivered through the same access point.

Lifestyle convenience allows patients to shower, swim, and engage in most normal activities between treatments. The device sits discreetly beneath the skin, leaving only a small bump visible(in thin individuals), and is invisible most of the time. When not accessed, it requires no external maintenance or special care.

The Chemoport Placement Procedure

• Specialists in Surgical Oncology, interventional radiology, or vascular surgery typically perform chemoport placement.

• The surgical process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia with conscious sedation or through general anesthesia for some patients.

• The surgeon makes one small incision (about 3 cms)below the collarbone for the port reservoir

• The port reservoir is placed in a pocket created under the skin on the chest wall and connected to the catheter, which will be inserted into the vein there( cephalic/ ijv) and positioned to the superior vena cava, right atrium junction under C arm guidance.

• Skin will be closed, covered with transparent plaster, over which the patient can bathe comfortably .Most patients are discharged home the same day, though some may require brief observation.

Recovery and Care After Port Placement

Understanding recovery time and proper care after chemoport insertion helps ensure optimal healing and device function. Recovery is generally straightforward, but following medical guidance is important.

Immediate recovery during the first 24 to 48 hours involves keeping the insertion site clean and dry. Patients may feel soreness, tenderness, bruising, or swelling around the port area, which is quite normal.

Most patients can resume light activities within a day or two, but they should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or anything that could pull on the incision sites for about one to two weeks. Recovery time varies by individual, but most patients return to normal activities within days.

Moving Forward with Confidence

The Oncology expertise available at Nanjappa Hospital, Shivamogga, ensures that patients receive skilled and compassionate care during port placement and throughout their cancer treatment journey. By understanding the procedure, following proper recovery practices, and maintaining open communication with our healthcare team, patients can approach port placement with confidence.

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