Hello...I have had my port over a year now and wouldn't trade it for anything. Like you, I was being PICC'ed frequently, sometimes every other month and my arms and veins were really suffering. I was also getting frequent infections related to my PICC's, in my blood, despite meticulous care. Getting the port really wasn't tough...I was put under (had a trach revision done at the same time, why separate the surgeries if they can be done at the same time? <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0"> I woke up a little sore with my port accessed. I have had no infections related to my port thus far, yes I did have a clotting issue but that was fixed with clot busters. My port is fully functional and gives up blood now so I am one happy camper. Mine is located on my right upper chest, it bumps out a little, not that noticable. The thing is, you can tell the surgeon where you would prefer to have your port. I didn't care, actually Iam happy where it is. It doesn't take long to heal either. After awhile, I just don't feel the needles going in, probably because of the scar tissue. My port has been used extensively in this short period of time. As for how long they last, it varies. I know of people who have had theirs for a decade! Some have problems and need them replaced either because of infection or just non functional. Hopefully, I wll be one of those who won't need a new port for some time. I hope I have helped. Good luck...I never regretted my decision. Hugs, Jenn <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif" border="0">
