A port catheter is a subcutaneous vascular access system inserted into the body to facilitate medication or serum administration in patients requiring long-term vascular access. It is generally preferred for patients requiring chemotherapy , long-term antibiotic therapy , or intravenous nutrition. This system consists of a small reservoir (port) inserted under the skin and a thin tube (catheter) extending into the vein. The port is covered by a special silicone membrane that can be punctured with a needle to deliver medication, eliminating the need for repeated needle insertions. The port catheter is invisible outside the body, allowing the patient to comfortably continue their daily activities.

What is Port Catheter Surgery?

Port catheter surgery involves placing a device under the skin. While it's called surgery, it's actually a minimally invasive procedure performed in an interventional radiology unit. If the patient's general condition permits, it's usually performed under local anesthesia .

How is Port Catheter Surgery Performed?

The port catheter is inserted into a major vein (usually under the collarbone or in the neck) using ultrasound and fluoroscopy (X-ray guidance). The reservoir is placed in a small pocket under the skin of the chest. The tip of the catheter reaches the major vein near the heart. After the procedure, the port system is checked, and after verifying proper function, the area is closed with a sterile dressing.

Who Should Have a Port Catheter and Why?

The purpose of port catheter placement is to eliminate the need for repeated vascular access and to make the treatment process more comfortable. A port catheter is particularly preferred in the following situations:

• For cancer patients: Vascular access is preserved during chemotherapy.

• Chronically ill patients: People who require long-term drug infusion.

• Patients with intestinal malabsorption and receiving intravenous nutrition

• Patients who require frequent blood draws or blood product administration

• It is preferred in cases such as immune therapies.

• For patients with difficult vascular access: Those who have difficulty opening vascular access each time.

• Chronic diseases that require frequent blood draws or medication administration

In addition, a port catheter makes the treatment process much easier for pediatric patients and people with weak immune systems.

How is a Port Catheter Inserted?

Port catheter insertion is performed in a sterile operating room, usually under local anesthesia. The procedure takes approximately 30-45 minutes, and the patient is usually discharged the same day. The steps are as follows:

• The area is numbed with local anesthesia.

• The vein is found under ultrasound guidance.

• The appropriate vein (usually under the neck or collarbone) is selected.

• A small pocket is created under the skin.

• The catheter is inserted into the selected vein.

• The tip of the catheter is connected to the port reservoir and the port is fixed under the skin.

• After the procedure, the port is tested for proper functioning and a dressing is applied.

Once the port catheter is inserted, only a small needle puncture site remains, which is covered with a dressing. The patient is usually discharged the same day.

How Long Does Port Catheter Surgery Take?

Inserting a port catheter usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes. A short rest period is sufficient after the procedure. This procedure, performed without the need for general anesthesia, is a low-risk and comfortable procedure.

Advantages of Port Catheter Insertion

• It eliminates the need for continuous vascular access.

• Medicines are delivered safely and quickly.

• Vascular tissue is preserved.

• The risk of infection is low.

• It does not affect daily life activities.

How to Care for a Port Catheter?

Port catheter care is vital to prevent the risk of infection and blockage. Key points to consider:

• The port should be flushed with sterile saline before and after each use.

• When not in use, it should be kept open by washing it with heparin serum once a month.

• The port area should be kept clean, dry and covered.

• Every procedure must be done with sterile needles and materials.

• If redness, swelling, pain or fever occurs around the port, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

• With proper care, port catheters can be used safely for 3-5 years.

Where is the Port Catheter Attached?

Generally:

• Right subclavian vein

• Jugular vein

is directed to the area close to the heart.

Port Catheter Remaining Time in the Body

A port catheter can remain in the body for between 6 months and 3 years. It can be removed when treatment is complete or when not in use. With proper care, ports can last for many years without any problems.

Things to Consider After Port Catheter Insertion

After port insertion, patients should pay attention to the following:

• During the first 24 hours, heavy lifting should not be done to the arm on the port side.

• The dressing should not be allowed to come into contact with water while bathing.

• Signs of infection (fever, rash, discharge) should be carefully monitored.

• The use of a port must be done by a nurse or doctor.

• If swelling, redness or pain occurs, a doctor should be consulted.

• Washing must be done after each use.

• The presence of a port does not affect the person's daily life; the patient can easily return to work and move around.

Port Catheter Care

• After each port use: It should be flushed with heparin serum.

• A sterile dressing should be applied.

• Watch for signs of infection such as redness, discharge, or fever.

How to Remove a Port Catheter?

The port catheter removal procedure is also performed by an interventional radiologist. The port site is opened under local anesthesia, the device is removed, and the procedure is closed with stitches. This usually takes 15–20 minutes.

Port Catheter Dressing

The dressing is checked after the first 48 hours. The area should be kept clean, dry, and covered. After each injection, the needle insertion site is covered with sterile gauze.

Port Catheter Surgery Price

Port catheter placement costs vary depending on the hospital's equipment, the procedure type, and the patient's condition. Patients with social security or private insurance coverage may receive this service at a discount or free of charge.

Port Catheter Surgery Ankara

Magnet Hospital in Ankara stands out with its experienced interventional radiology team in port catheter procedures. All procedures are performed under CT and ultrasound guidance, under sterile conditions, and with patient comfort as a priority. Patients are typically discharged the same day and return to their normal routine quickly.

Where is a Port Catheter Inserted in Ankara?

Patients who wish to have a port catheter inserted in Ankara can receive service from the following centers:

• State hospitals and training and research hospitals (oncology or general surgery departments)

• University hospitals (e.g. Hacettepe, Ankara University, Gazi University)

• Private hospitals and oncology centers with SGK agreements

• Private interventional radiology clinics

Before having a port placed, it's important to learn about the center's experience, sterile conditions, and social security status. Some private centers also offer home port care services.

Port Catheter - Application in Ankara Magnet Hospital

At Ankara Magnet Hospital, port catheter placement is performed using minimally invasive techniques for patients requiring cancer treatment or long-term vascular access. The procedure is performed under sterile conditions, guided by radiological imaging, and provides comfortable and safe vascular access. Patients can quickly return to their daily lives after the procedure, and the catheter can be used for long-term medication administration and blood sampling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to detect port infection?

If there is redness, warmth, pain, or fever around the port, infection is suspected. A doctor should be consulted immediately.

What is a port catheter and what does it do?

A port catheter is a medical system consisting of a small reservoir inserted under the skin and a thin tube extending into a vein. It facilitates the administration of medication, chemotherapy, or IV fluids during long-term vascular access.

How is port catheter surgery performed?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia by an interventional radiologist. A catheter is inserted into the vein using ultrasound and X-ray guidance, and the port is secured under the skin. The procedure typically takes 30–45 minutes.

Does inserting a port catheter hurt?

No. Because the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, the patient will not feel any pain. There may be a slight tingling or tightness afterward, but this quickly subsides.

How long can a port catheter remain in the body?

Depending on the duration of treatment, a port catheter can generally remain in the body for between 6 months and 3 years. It can be used for longer periods if necessary.

Is it necessary to take a bath after the port catheter is inserted?

After the first 48 hours, if the wound is completely closed, you can bathe. However, it is recommended that the area not remain wet for extended periods.

Does a port catheter prevent MRI?

No. The vast majority of modern port systems are MRI compatible, meaning they can be used during MRI.

What to do if the port catheter is blocked?

In the event of a blockage, the catheter can be opened with heparinized saline or special fluids. You should not attempt to intervene on your own; an interventional radiologist should be consulted.

When is the port catheter removed?

Once treatment is completed or no longer in use, the port catheter can be easily removed. The removal process is performed under local anesthesia and takes approximately 15–20 minutes.

Can I do sports after a port catheter is inserted?

Strenuous exercise should be avoided for the first few weeks. Afterward, light activities such as swimming and walking can be done with your doctor's approval.

Who performs port catheter care?

Maintenance should be performed by a trained nurse or interventional radiology team. The port should be flushed and a sterile dressing applied after each use.

How often should port catheter dressing be done?

The first dressing is applied after 48 hours, and the port should be cleaned and closed after each use. If it is not used for an extended period, it should be checked monthly.

Is it possible for the port catheter to fall out or become dislodged?

It's very rare. A port catheter is usually secured with stitches and placed under the skin, so it doesn't easily become dislodged. If in doubt, a doctor's appointment is recommended.

Can blood be taken from a port catheter?

Yes, a port catheter can be used for both medication administration and blood collection. However, this procedure must be performed by a healthcare professional.

Is the cost of port catheter insertion covered by Social Security?

Yes. Social Security (SGK) covers the insertion of a port catheter for patients requiring chemotherapy or long-term intravenous access. Private insurance policies generally also cover this cost.

How much does a port catheter cost?

The cost of port catheter placement varies in private hospitals. Social Security Institution (SGK) or private insurance agreements may reduce this cost. A surcharge may apply.

In which diseases is a port catheter inserted?

Most commonly, it is preferred in cases such as cancer (for chemotherapy), chronic infection treatments, long-term intravenous nutrition, and immune therapies.

How can I reduce the risk of port catheter infection?

After each use, the dressing should be washed, the dressing changed in a sterile manner, and the area kept clean. This minimizes the risk of infection.

What should patients who have a port catheter inserted pay attention to?

Keep the area dry and clean. If you experience pain, redness, or swelling, consult a doctor. Allow only authorized personnel to handle the port.

A port catheter is a safe, comfortable, and aesthetic solution for patients requiring long-term vascular access. It simplifies the treatment process by preserving vascular structure during both chemotherapy and long-term treatments. As of 2025, many SGK-affiliated hospitals and private oncology centers in Ankara are safely performing this procedure by specialist physicians. Ankara Magnet Hospital offers both safe and comfortable treatment processes with experienced interventional radiologists and state-of-the-art equipment.

For information and appointments, you can call the hotline at 0312 212 80 80.