I had to have my PICC line removed weeks ago, because it sprung a leak. I now want a port instead, because I had soooo much on-going pain for 5 months with the PICC, and so many problems with it. It seems that my veins were irritated or spasming around the line.
My doctor doesn't want to rx a port. Maybe I can convince him, but not sure.
Would it be helpful to have my veins checked by a vascular doctor before we decide which route to go? It seems that my veins aren't in very good shape. I originally did peripheral lines, but had 5 out of 6 veins collapse---really painful!! Does anyone know anything about getting the veins checked, like how would you have them checked, is it helpful, do you need a vascular surgeon?
I've also had bad varicose veins and spider veins since I was really young. Thank you!
Posted by Rumigirl (Member # 15091) on :
up for replies.
Posted by Skyler (Member # 11549) on :
A Port might be the way to go. I have heard good things about them. They are less risky.
I ended up developing blood blots in my arm from my last Picc Line, because I fell down and twisted my arm on the way trying to catch myself.
With ports, you do not have that risk. You also do not have pain with vein spasms and such.
Posted by bigstan (Member # 11699) on :
An ultrasound is usually the choice for checking veins. You wouldn't need a vascular surgeon, just someone trained in ultrasound diagnostic testing.
Never had a port, and am having second picc line put in soon. I do remember irritation in veins from first picc line. It was then that my doctor sent me for an ultrasound of the picc line and veins.
Karl A
Posted by Cheryl (Member # 75) on :
I sure know what it's like to have terrible veins! I take it you and the doctor want to continue with IV because you are benefiting from it? If so, you might ask about a Hickman catheter.
If you do go with a PICC, definitely have it inserted using flouroscopy/ultrasound. (This could also serve as your evaluation of whether they can insert the PICC.) Speaking from personal experience, I wouldn't have either of these done at just any hospital. I'd choose a large hospital's interventional radiology department.