Portacath Removal
Cost: $2,432 USD
Type of procedure: Outpatient surgery
What is the Portacath Retreat?
Portacath removal (implanted venous catheter) is a surgical procedure performed to remove a device previously used to administer intravenous medications, such as chemotherapy, antibiotics, or parenteral nutrition. This procedure is necessary when the portacath is no longer required, has served its purpose, or has problems such as infections, blockages, or damage to the device.
Portacath removal is a safe and quick procedure performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s characteristics and the location of the device.
Includes
- Medical Team
Procedure performed by a team of specialized surgeons, ensuring a safe and precise extraction.
- Laboratory
Complete pre-surgical studies to evaluate the patient’s health status and rule out contraindications for the procedure.
- Office
Chest X-ray imaging to verify the position of the portacath and plan its removal.
- Preoperative evaluation by Internal Medicine + EKG
Complete medical evaluation by an internist and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to ensure that the patient is in adequate condition for the procedure.
- Postoperative visits
Medical follow-up to evaluate recovery, ensure that there are no complications and guarantee adequate healing.
Preparing for surgery
For portacath removal, your medical team may recommend:
- Fasting for at least 6 hours before the procedure if general anesthesia will be used.
- Review of current medications, to adjust or discontinue those that may interfere with coagulation.
- Pre-surgical tests, such as blood tests and imaging studies, to verify the status of the device and the patient’s general health.
Recovery
Recovery from this procedure is quick due to its outpatient nature. Recommendations include:
- Avoid strenuous physical activity for at least 1 week to allow for proper healing.
- Keep the wound clean and dry, following medical advice to prevent infection.
- Control discomfort with prescription pain relievers if needed.
- Monitor the treated area for signs of infection, such as redness, persistent pain, or fever.
Most patients can return to normal activities in 1 to 2 days.
Risks and Complications
Although portacath removal is a safe procedure, some risks may occur, such as:
- Infection at the surgical site, which may require treatment with antibiotics.
- Minor bleeding at the extraction site, which usually resolves spontaneously.
- Hematoma formation, although this is uncommon.
- Injury to surrounding tissues or veins, which is rare with an experienced surgical team.