Port Removal

Glv49

Hi all,
I don't post too much.. but do read almost every day.. brief history.. dx July 2003.. Stage IV colon cancer.. surgery.. colostomy, hysterectomy.. radiation.. chemo 5FU, leukovorin, oxillaplatin.. for 6 mos .. cancer free since March 2004.. yeah... well anyways.. I am scheduled to have my port removed next Wednesday, and whenever I had it put in, I was taken to the operating room, and was asleep. This time they told me it will just be a local, and I will be awake but... won't feel it.. and If I do.. they will give me another shot.. I was wondering if anyone else had this procedure done this way... and how was it?? I liked it whenever I was sleeping.. and didn't know anything.. lol.. I am really nervous about this whole thing..But I have to get it out.. they only use if for bloodwork now.. and its so hard to access.. my onc says its time.

Gail in PA

jams67

I had mine removed in June. It is not worth being put to sleep over or losing sleep over. I can't say it didn't hurt at all, but after all you've been through, you can do it! jams

KFalvey

Hi Gail,
Yes, I had my first port removed in the surgeons office and it did not hurt. The discomfort afterward was not quite as bad as when they put it in. Took about 30 minutes total. Relax, it won't be anything to worry about and you'll be so glad when its out. Kandy

KFalvey

Hi Gail,
Yes, I had my first port removed in the surgeons office and it did not hurt. The discomfort afterward was not quite as bad as when they put it in. Took about 30 minutes total. Relax, it won't be anything to worry about and you'll be so glad when its out. Kandy

Glv49

Thanks....I know I can do it.. I have come this far. I am not going to let this stop me now.

Gail

kangatoo

Glv49 said:

Thanks....I know I can do it.. I have come this far. I am not going to let this stop me now.

Gail

Gail....look on it as a celebration!Then when it is out go treat yourself to a day out on tha town.
cheers, Ross n Jen

taraHK

I had mine removed under a local. It was fine. I was quite apprehensive beforehand, but it went fine -- not long and not painful. Good luck.

alta29

Congrats !!!!!!!! and God Bless.....
We can do it !!!!!

CAMaura

I am thrilled for you in so many ways!! First of all that you are doing so incredibly well...And, secondly, that your port can come out! I had the same regime as you...Out for insertion, local for the taking out. The only odd thing for me was that the doc tugged and pulled...It was attched to me like a barnacle. But, it is over and done with. it probably takes less than five mintues total. Don't worry, If you are the least bit anxious, you could always take a Benadryl and ask someone to drive you...Just a thought. It might make you drowsy enough. Anyway, just think about what you have been through and how healthy you are...All the best to you - Maura

helpjoy

Hi Gail in PA. Please do not worry, I was asleep when they first placed the port. About two years later, my surgeron removed it in his office, his nurse was present, you feel a little pressure, and of course you will be nervous, I assure you this will be less painful when you think of all you have been through. By the way, I just celebrated my fourth anniversary in remission from colon cancer.

Take care, just take one day at a time, do not overdo, be careful not to lift any items that are very heavy, call a friend go out have lunch, it will take time but enjoy each day.

joyce tanner/columbus, ohio
mariajoytanner@netzero.com

nanuk

I've had a hickman installed and removed with a local, and a port installed under local; it was a
breeze-no pain..and, you get to walk out of the OR and drive yourself home if you wish. Bud

Glv49

Thanks, once again.. I will let all of you know how it turns out. This is such a wonderful place to come for answers, support, inspiration, and hope. All of you are in my prayers always.

Gail