Port-a-Catheter Removal

Your surgeon makes a small incision over the port and removes the device. Then your skin is closed with sutures and covered with steri-strips or surgical glue.

A procedure that involves a smaller incision and a less invasive technique, shortening recovery time.

Port-a-catheter removal is performed when you no longer need a port that has been implanted.

Some of the possible side effects and complications of a port removal procedure are bruising, swelling, and tenderness where the port was removed.

The alternative to port-a-catheter removal surgery is continuing to live with your port in your body.

Many port-a-catheter removal patients return to most of their usual routines within a day or two after the procedure. Any bruising, swelling, or tenderness typically goes away in three to five days.

You don’t need a referral to see a surgeon about a port-a-catheter removal procedure.

You can always get a second or third opinion, but it isn’t required. 

Your health history will be compiled and available to the team before, during, and after surgery. If you’re a Hancock Health patient, we will be able to access your records within our system. If you aren’t, we will work with your doctors to get the necessary information. 

Your surgical team will evaluate the situation and help you make a choice that’s right for you and your health.

Consult the price transparency tool at HancockRegionalHospital.org for an idea of how much a port-a-catheter removal surgery might cost.

Medicare parts A and B will cover the cost of a port-a-catheter removal procedure, but it’s important for your doctor to indicate that the surgery is medically necessary.

Follow the directions your care team gives you to prepare for your procedure.

You’ll arrive several hours before your surgery and be escorted to the preoperative waiting area.You’ll remove all of your clothing and jewelry and put on a hospital gown. (Your valuables will be placed in a secure area or may be given to a family member.) You’ll sign any necessary paperwork, and a preoperative nurse will take your vital signs, review your medications, and answer any questions.You’ll meet the members of your care team. An I.V. (intravenous line) may be placed in your hand or arm so medication, including anesthesia, can be administered.When it’s time for your procedure, you will be wheeled into the operating suite.

In addition to the surgeon, you have an anesthesiologist, nurses—some of whom specialize in working with patients and others assist the surgeon—and support staff, who get you checked in and out, compile your records, and more. They all work together, performing their individual jobs, so the procedure is as successful as possible.

You will likely be released to go home the same day as your port-a-catheter removal procedure, but it’s a good idea to be prepared. Bring anything you might need for an overnight stay, including a change of underwear, a sweatshirt, robe, glasses or contacts, headphones, and your medications.

The area around your port will be numbed and you might be sedated for the procedure. Your surgeon will make a small incision over the port and remove the device. Then, your skin will be closed with sutures and covered with steri-strips or surgical glue.

A port-a-catheter removal procedure takes 15 t0 30 minutes.

While the length of a hospital stay depends on each patient’s individual needs, patients are typically discharged the same day as the procedure.

After the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery room where you will stay until you’re ready to be released.

You’ll be able to talk to your surgeon immediately after your procedure, while you’re in the recovery room.

Most patients receive pain medication immediately following the procedure. 

Your doctor may prescribe pain medication to ease any discomfort associated with the procedure.

Make sure you have the appropriate groceries for when you arrive home from the port-a-catheter removal surgery. If you live alone, you may want to arrange for a friend or family member to check in with you.

Our associates will help you arrange the postoperative care you’ll need, but port removal patients typically do not need physical therapy or rehabilitation.

Stitches from a port-a-catheter removal procedure typically dissolve on their own. You will likely have a scar, but it will fade with time.

If you have an emergency following your procedure, call your surgeon’s office. If you’re in need of immediate emergency services, go to the nearest emergency room.