Mediport (also called port-a-cath) insertion and removal are specialized procedures that involve surgically placing or removing a small device beneath the skin to provide reliable access to the venous system. At our practice, we understand that facing cancer treatment is challenging enough without the added stress of frequent needle sticks. That's why we're committed to providing compassionate, expert care while helping you understand each step of your treatment.
These targeted procedures effectively establish or remove a convenient access point for chemotherapy, blood draws, IV fluids, and other medications without the need for repeated vein punctures. Our Mediport approach utilizes advanced techniques for both insertion and removal. For insertion, we strategically place the device in a comfortable, convenient location, typically on the upper chest, with the catheter precisely positioned in a large central vein. For removal, once treatment is complete, we gently extract the device with minimal scarring. We employ careful surgical planning, local anesthesia, and fluoroscopic guidance when needed, resulting in reliable, long-term venous access that simplifies your treatment experience or clean removal upon completion of therapy through safe, effective procedures tailored to your individual needs.
You may need Mediport insertion if you:
Are beginning chemotherapy treatment requiring reliable venous access
Have difficult venous access due to small or damaged veins
Require frequent blood draws during cancer treatment
Need long-term antibiotics or other intravenous medications
Require treatments with vesicant drugs that can damage peripheral veins
Experience anxiety with frequent needle sticks
Have had complications with peripheral IV lines
Need regular blood product transfusions
Have limited peripheral access sites due to lymphedema or other conditions
Require parenteral nutrition
Need frequent injections of contrast for imaging studies
Have a treatment plan expected to last several months or longer
Have experienced extravasation from peripheral IVs in the past
You may need Mediport removal if you:
Have completed your chemotherapy or treatment regimen
No longer require regular venous access
Have developed an infection related to the port
Experience mechanical complications such as catheter occlusion
Have a port that has flipped or migrated
Develop a blood clot (thrombosis) associated with the port
Have formed a fibrin sheath around the catheter tip
Experience ongoing discomfort at the port site
Have exposed or eroded port components
Develop an allergic reaction to port materials
Have a damaged or leaking port
Request removal for personal reasons after discussion with your oncologist
Have not used the port for an extended period (typically 6-12 months)
At Lifetime Surgical, our approach to Mediport procedures combines precision with personalized care, carefully tailored to each phase of your cancer treatment journey.
For Mediport Insertion:
The procedure begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your venous anatomy, planned treatments, body habitus, and lifestyle considerations to determine the optimal port type and placement location. What defines us is our expertise in creating a customized plan for each patient, considering comfort, convenience, and aesthetic concerns while ensuring reliable function.
After administering local anesthesia and mild sedation if needed, we make a small incision (typically 2-3 cm) in the upper chest area where the port reservoir will be placed. Through careful dissection, we create a small pocket in the subcutaneous tissue to house the port. We then access a large vein, most commonly the subclavian or internal jugular vein, using ultrasound guidance to ensure precise, safe entry. The catheter is threaded through this vein until its tip rests in the superior vena cava, just above the heart.
Our approach includes real-time fluoroscopic imaging to confirm ideal catheter positioning, secure anchoring of the port to prevent migration or flipping, and meticulous multi-layer closure techniques that minimize scarring. We test the port for proper function before completion and provide comprehensive education on port care and activities during the healing phase.
For Mediport Removal:
When your treatment is complete, we perform port removal with the same attention to detail as insertion. After appropriate local anesthesia, we carefully reopen the original incision site and identify the port components. Through precise dissection, we free the port from any surrounding fibrous tissue that may have formed and carefully extract the catheter from the vein.
Our distinctive approach includes specialized techniques to minimize the risk of air embolism during catheter removal, thorough inspection to ensure complete removal of all components, and cosmetically-minded closure methods that often improve the appearance of the original insertion scar. For patients with concerns about infection, we may obtain tissue cultures to guide any necessary antibiotic therapy.
Throughout both procedures, we employ strict sterile technique, gentle tissue handling, and efficient procedural flow that typically allows completion within 30-60 minutes. Our comprehensive approach includes coordination with your oncology team to ensure the port is ready for use at the appropriate time or that removal occurs at the optimal point in your treatment schedule. This personalized strategy ensures both successful port placement and removal while prioritizing your comfort, safety, and unique needs throughout your cancer treatment journey.
Immediate Post-Procedure: Insertion (1-3 days)
Return home the same day in virtually all cases
Keep the incision site clean and dry for 48 hours
Expect mild discomfort managed with prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter options
Apply ice intermittently for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling
Sleep with your head slightly elevated to minimize swelling and discomfort
Avoid heavy lifting (more than 10 pounds) and vigorous upper-body movements
Wear loose-fitting clothing that doesn't rub against the port site
Monitor for bleeding, excessive swelling, or signs of infection
The port may be used immediately if needed, though routine use typically begins after 24 hours
Maintain any dressings as directed by your surgical team
Take prophylactic antibiotics if prescribed
Contact your provider for increased pain, fever, or drainage from the incision
Expect some bruising and swelling which typically resolves within a few days
Note that a visible bump where the port is located is normal and expected
Immediate Post-Procedure: Removal (1-3 days)
Return home the same day following the procedure
Keep the incision site clean and dry for 48 hours
Experience typically less discomfort than with insertion
Use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed for mild discomfort
Apply ice intermittently for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling
Maintain any dressings as directed by your surgical team
Monitor for bleeding, excessive swelling, or signs of infection
Avoid swimming or submerging the incision until fully healed
Continue normal activities but avoid heavy lifting for 24-48 hours
Expect minimal bruising and swelling which typically resolves quickly
Note that the previous "bump" from the port will no longer be present
Watch for any unusual symptoms such as shortness of breath (very rare)
Contact your provider for increased pain, fever, or drainage from the incision
Most patients report minimal disruption to daily activities after removal
Short-Term Recovery: Insertion (4-14 days)
Attend your follow-up appointment (typically 7-10 days after insertion)
Have sutures removed if non-absorbable sutures were used
Begin normal showering once the incision is confirmed to be healing well
Continue to avoid submerging the site in baths, pools, or hot tubs until completely healed
Resume most normal activities, gradually increasing as comfort allows
Continue to avoid heavy lifting or vigorous activities for 10-14 days
Become familiar with the feel of your properly positioned port
Learn to recognize normal versus abnormal sensations around the port
Begin using the port for treatments as directed by your oncology team
Develop awareness of proper positioning for port access
Monitor for any signs of infection or complications
Expect decreasing discomfort as tissues adapt to the presence of the port
Notice gradual fading of any bruising around the insertion site
Begin to adjust psychologically to the port as part of your treatment journey
Receive instruction on long-term port care and maintenance
Short-Term Recovery: Removal (4-14 days)
Attend your follow-up appointment if scheduled
Have sutures removed if non-absorbable sutures were used
Resume all normal activities, including exercise, once the incision has healed
Monitor the healing incision for proper closure
Expect continued improvement in the appearance of the incision
Experience resolution of any sensation of "emptiness" where the port was located
Resume activities previously restricted by the port (certain water sports, contact activities)
Notice continued fading of any bruising around the removal site
May begin scar treatment if desired once the incision is fully closed
Adjust psychologically to completing this phase of your treatment journey
Report any concerns about the healing site promptly
Experience minimal limitations during this recovery phase
Long-Term Considerations: With Mediport
The port may be left in place for many months or years as needed for treatment
Regular port maintenance includes monthly flushes with heparin when not in active use
Most patients quickly adapt to the port presence with minimal lifestyle restrictions
The port is designed to be robust enough for swimming and most physical activities
Avoid direct trauma to the port site (contact sports may require protective padding)
Monitor for any signs of port complications:
Difficulty with blood return
Pain during infusions
Swelling of the face, neck, or arm on the port side
Visible catheter track marks or signs of catheter movement
The port site typically becomes less noticeable as initial healing completes
Most patients report that the convenience of easy access outweighs the minor discomfort
High-impact activities may be resumed once initial healing is complete
Port can generally remain in place between treatment cycles as needed
Regular evaluation of continued need for the port by your oncology team
The scar typically fades significantly over 6-12 months
Long-Term Considerations: After Removal
Complete healing of the removal site typically occurs within 2-3 weeks
The scar from port removal often becomes less visible than the original insertion scar
The scar continues to fade for up to 12 months after removal
Most patients experience no long-term effects after port removal
The vein used for catheter placement typically returns to normal function
Some patients report a sensation of "freedom" after port removal
Psychological benefit of removing a visible reminder of cancer treatment
No long-term activity restrictions after complete healing
Most patients achieve excellent cosmetic results with minimal visible scarring
Rarely, some residual numbness may persist around the former port site
Subcutaneous tissue typically remodels, making the previous port site less noticeable
The removal procedure typically provides definitive resolution without the need for further intervention
Celebrate this milestone as a positive step in your cancer journey
Common Side Effects: Insertion
Mild to moderate pain at the insertion site for a few days
Bruising around the port site and along the catheter track
Visible and palpable port reservoir under the skin (expected)
Mild swelling around the insertion site
Feeling of tightness or pressure until tissues adapt to the port
Small seroma (fluid collection) around the port
Temporary skin sensitivity near the port
Awareness of the port during certain movements
Mild discomfort with initial accessing of the port
Slight pulling sensation along the catheter path
Small scar at the insertion site
Occasional requirement for repositioning during port access
Common Side Effects: Removal
Mild pain at the removal site for 1-2 days
Minor bleeding or bruising at the incision
Small scar at the removal site
Temporary skin sensitivity around the former port location
Sensation of "emptiness" where the port was located
Mild tissue depression at the former port site that typically resolves
Slight pulling or tightness from the removal incision
Brief emotional response to port removal (positive or mixed)
Minimal activity limitations during healing
Less Common Complications: Insertion
Infection of the port pocket or catheter (1-4%)
Catheter-related thrombosis (blood clot formation)
Port migration or "flipping" requiring repositioning
Catheter occlusion requiring medication or intervention
Pneumothorax (collapsed lung, rare with ultrasound guidance)
Arterial puncture during venous access
Port or catheter leakage
Pinch-off syndrome (catheter compression between the clavicle and first rib)
Catheter malposition requiring adjustment
Allergic reaction to port materials
Fibrin sheath formation around the catheter tip
Air embolism during placement (very rare)
Port erosion through the skin (typically with very thin patients)
Cardiac arrhythmia from catheter advancement (transient)
Superior vena cava syndrome (rare)
Less Common Complications: Removal
Infection at the removal site
Catheter fragmentation with retained fragment
Venous bleeding requiring additional intervention
Incomplete removal of fibrous capsule
Air embolism during catheter removal (very rare)
Difficulty removing due to extensive fibrous tissue
Catheter adherence to vessel wall
Persistent depression at the port site
Hypertrophic or keloid scarring
Need for more extensive surgery than anticipated
Recurrent symptoms suggesting retained catheter fragment
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After Insertion:
Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
Severe pain, redness, or swelling at the port site
Drainage or bleeding from the incision
Shortness of breath or chest pain
Swelling of the face, neck, or arm on the port side
Catheter visible outside the skin
Port visibly protruding or eroding through the skin
Inability to flush or access the port
Severe pain during port access or infusion
Significant swelling or bruising that continues to worsen
After Removal:
Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
Excessive bleeding from the removal site
Significant swelling, redness, or drainage at the incision
Shortness of breath or chest pain
Opening of the incision
Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medications
Unusual sensations in neck or chest after removal
Signs of infection at the removal site
From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we provide:
Thorough evaluation and explanation of your condition
Clear discussion of all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives when appropriate
Detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare
Compassionate care during your hospital stay or outpatient procedure
Comprehensive follow-up care and support during recovery
Ongoing availability to address questions or concerns
We understand that facing head and neck surgery can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is committed to providing expert care with a personal touch, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Your health and wellbeing are our highest priorities, and we're honored to be part of your care team.
.svg)
All our laparoscopic procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
We're committed to providing you with the most advanced, minimally invasive options because we believe you deserve:
Less pain after surgery
Shorter hospital stays
Faster return to work and activities you enjoy
Smaller, less visible scars
Lower risk of complications
Better overall outcomes
Dr. Richard Nguyen is a board-certified General Surgeon with over 20 years of surgical expertise and fellowship training in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery from Vanderbilt University. Since establishing his practice in San Jose in 2007, he has pioneered innovative surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic procedures and mastery of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. Beyond his acclaimed bariatric surgery practice, he has earned national recognition for his specialized expertise in both non-mesh and advanced mesh hernia repairs, while also serving as a critical approach surgeon for anterior spine access procedures. Dr. Nguyen combines technical precision with personalized care across multiple premier facilities throughout the South Bay Area.
I would refer Doctor Nguyen to anyone, in fact I have and they have all had the same experience as me. He is truly great. I owe all my success to Doctor Nguyen and I thank him for all the work he has done for me and continues to do so. He is extremely amazing, and I am very grateful to him.
.avif){kind=avatar}
At 50, I now have a life I had only dreamed of a year before. My body tells me if I am done eating. This surgery is a tool that I have used to the fullest. It is not an easy way out. It still took work. But I honestly know that I would not be living this amazing new life if I didn’t step forward to embrace this life-saving surgery.
.avif){kind=avatar}
Dr. Nguyen has changed my life completely. I feel so much better and I also feel like I’ve got control of my life again…I had high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. I took at least 5 different medications for the past 30 years. NOW, after surgery I take no medications only vitamins!
Wondering which surgical procedure might be right for your condition? We're here to help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Your path to improved health may be more achievable than you think—with advanced surgical techniques leading to faster recovery, reduced complications, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.