Port Placement

Columbia Surgical Specialists - General Surgery provides placement of implantable ports (port-a-caths) for patients requiring long-term intravenous access for chemotherapy, frequent blood draws, or other treatments. An implantable port is a small device placed under the skin that provides reliable access to a large vein, eliminating the need for repeated needle sticks.

Our evaluation includes a review of your medical history, treatment needs, and assessment of your veins. We use ultrasound to identify the best location for port placement, typically in the chest wall. We work closely with your oncologist or other treating physicians to ensure the port meets your specific treatment requirements. We discuss the procedure, expected recovery, and care of the port.

We perform port placement using advanced techniques with ultrasound guidance for optimal placement. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, ensuring patient comfort. The port is placed through a small incision and connected to a catheter that is threaded into a large vein. Most patients can go home the same day and can begin using the port shortly after placement. We also provide removal of ports when they are no longer needed.