Ports for Chemotherapy

A port-a-cath or chemo port is a small device (about the size of a quarter) that is used to carry medicine into the bloodstream. The port has one or two small basins that are sealed with a soft silicone top, called a septum. The port is placed under the skin on your chest. The port connects to a small, soft tube called a catheter. The catheter is placed inside one of the large central veins that take blood to your heart. When a special needle is put into the septum, it creates “access” to your bloodstream. Medicine and fluids can be given through the needle and blood samples can be withdrawn.