Sore portocath

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Hi everyon

My portocath was fitted last Monday and it’s still sore, like an achy sore… Is this right? I’m scared of sleeping on that side in case I damage anything. It’s been fitted quite high because of my reconstruction, was thinking that might be it?

Thanks
J

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It can be sore for a while afterwards. Mine was actually sore for about 6 weeks because it had to be stitched to the chest wall - I think that’s unusual though. I would expect something like that to be sore for a while.

The main thing to check is there isn’t infection such as high temperature, redness and swelling in the area. Also is it more sore than before? If you’re worried you could always see your GP or ring up the surgeon’s secretary and explain how it is. Elinda x

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Mine was much more sore that I thought it would be - it was done under a local so I imagined it would be just like stitches in a finger. However, remember that they’ve been rooting around under your dermis and detaching it from your chest wall to do the plumbing so soreness is normal.

Mine is now 8 days ago and it’s much better. If you’re not sure, ring up the hospital.

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Hi Poannie, My portacath was the same for quite a few days. It felt bruised. We can sleep on that side, but I am conscious of it being there and try not to. I put Arnica on mine after it is used as it does get bruised (advised by chemo nurse). It does its job very well as saves our veins! Also had bad cough recently and it seemed to pull on it - apparently normal. Adi

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Yup, mine hurt like heck for about 2 weeks. Now it’s settled down nicely.

Ann x

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Mine’s great now, but was a bit achy. I also got a funny sensation in my throat (no I don’t know what that was all about) whenever I coughed, but that settled down and went away.

And I always use EMLA cream for an hour before it’s being accessed, because I’m a wuss.

Elinda’s got it right, keep an eye out for any sign of infection and report that, but otherwise it’s probably nothing to worry about. But if you ARE worried, give your BCN a ring and have a chat about it, just to be sure.

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Thank you for your input ladies… I do have a slight cough, which I suppose isn’t helping with it… xxx