Hi I had my second Ec yesterday .2 attempts to get a cannula in ,started Chemo but half way through the vein failed.Second arm 2 attempts then successful .Horrific and painful. Given a leaflet on Piccs ,any-one have one ?
Hi Percivn
My Picc line was put in before my first Chemo, very straightforward procedure done under local anestetic and very easy when it comes to the chemo drugs being given, they will also use it to take bloods etc so no needles there either.
The line has to be flushed once a week, mine was done at a local clinic by an IV nurse took about 20 minutes each time and when bathing you would need a waterproof picc line cover, I bought my own online and paid about £20 for it,
I had no problems with mine and as i dislike needles it was the best option fo me, it was left in until about 3 weeks after and then the removal was also done by the IV nurse.
Hope this helps and good luck with the Chemo
Mary x
Hi Percivn
A PICC line will be so much easier for you. I had a line inserted almost as soon as I knew I would be having chemo because my right arm is a right tightwad when it comes to giving blood through my veins.
Go for it !! you won’t believe the difference it can make.
Swampy
I was given the choice of nothing, picc or portacath.
My mum is a retired theatre nurse & knew the surgeon he said portacath is what he would choose.
So portacath I had - deffo the right decision. It’s put in by a vascular surgeon in theatre, I had a local (my choice) but is also done with a general. It was removed after treatment, I’m left with a small neat scar which is hidden by my bra strap.
My friend had her treatment in France where a portacath is standard.
Best of luck