I did not have a port as a child, they were not around then. I got my first port at 15. I highly recommend getting a port. I have enjoyed both of mine. My first one lasted 7 yrs and I didnt hesitate to get it replaced (in 2005) with the one I have now.
What is the procedure for this?
he will have to have surgery to have it put in. Not major surgery, but still surgery. Usually you go home the say day, unless you have it put in during one of his hopsital stay. It can be used right after surgery.
What is the maintence?
It will have to be flushed every month, most parents are taught this so they can do it in the comfort of home. I got my port to cut down on blood draws also, however, after getting it placed they told me they do not recommend me drawing blood due to it altering blood levels and shorting the life of the port. So, I do not draw blood out of my port. When accessed, the needle has to be changed once a week as well as the dressing. You can change it all at once.
How permanent is it?
I guess you can say it is Semi-Permanent. It is placed under the skin. Looks like a bubble. It can be removed but only by surgery and usually only when there is a problem with it.
Is it painful?
Tender after surgery, but once that has pass - no. It does take a little getting use to since you now have something that wasnt there before...but that usually doesnt take long. Getting stuck with the needle to access it can be painful for some ppl, other's say it doesnt hurt or after a while you get numb to it. For me, I dont chance it and I use Emla cream before getting accessed. I put the cream on, with tegaderm to hold it in place, for about an hour before access. That way I know I wont feel anything.
Unlike the post from fourkidsmom, whenever I go to surgery, they will not use it. They have to have vein access. I have had a number of surgeries over the past 10 yrs and it has never been used for surgery. I always ask, even at different hospitals, and they always say no. That always annoys me. I guess cause I am older, they figure I should understand. Also my port is not in a common place. Mine is located on my lower chest on the left side. That may play a factor. If he goes for surgery, always ask but dont be surprised if they say no.
Personally, the Pros of a port out weigh the Cons. Talk to your son's doctor what he thinks about a port. If they say yes. Ask the surgeon putting in the port what you can and cannot do with the port. I have notice each hospital has their own set of protocols and rules when ports are involved.
