Anyone w/ weekly taxol/herceptin only not have a port?

lesliecusana

I had not planned to get a port, but after 2 treatments tired of sticks already!  Actually MO said ok to get one but BS can't do it this week so it would be after 3rd treatment before I can get it! Also a little concerned about procedure after started chemo and infection chances! Anyone make it without one? Any advice appreciated!

Melrosemelrose

Lesliecusana-  I did not have weekly Taxols but I did have Herceptin.  I had a port placed at the time I had my UMX.  The port was not optional because the administration of the Herceptin spans over a year.  I am very glad that I did have a port since I have veins that just bury themselves when they know the poke is coming.  My port was used for blood draws as well as for the chemo infusions and Herceptin.  Whether you have a port or not, it is always a good idea to hydrate the day before you have an infusion since it helps make the vein access/port access a little easier.  As to the possibility of infection, make sure that you tell your BS that you have already started chemo and that you are considered with the blood cell counts being low.  I don't know if you are currently having a Neulasta shot after a chemo round.  You just want to make sure that you inform all of your docs about your concern for infection during the port placement and ask whether you should receive antibiotics before, during and after the port placement.  Never hurts to ask.  Keep us posted.  Wishing you the best.