Mediport Placement Specialist

What is a mediport?

A mediport is a small medical device that’s connected to a catheter. The port is about the size of a quarter and may be oval, round, or shaped like a triangle.

Dr. Madni implants the device under your skin and runs the catheter into a central vein. The port creates a reservoir that serves two purposes. You can receive medications through the port, and your doctor can draw blood samples when needed.

The port allows you to get the medication you need without suffering frequent needle sticks and having an intravenous needle inserted. 

Specialized needles go through the port’s self-sealing cover without leaving holes. Your provider injects the medication you need into the port, and then the catheter carries it into your bloodstream.

When would I need mediport placement?

Most people get a mediport implanted when they need chemotherapy. You could also need a mediport if you need regular IV fluids, long-term antibiotics, or infusions of other medications. Your mediport can stay in place for as long as you need it, even if that means several years.

What should I expect during mediport placement?

Before your procedure, Dr. Madni gives you any instructions you may need to prepare for the procedure. As one example, you may need to stop taking specific medications.

Dr. Madni gives you a sedative to help you relax and uses a local anesthetic to prevent pain during the procedure. Then she makes a small incision below your clavicle (collarbone) and inserts the port under your skin.

After implanting the mediport, Dr. Madni guides the catheter into a major vein. She secures the mediport and catheter and closes the incision.

Though it takes time for the incision to heal, your physician can use the port immediately. After the incision heals, the port doesn’t affect your daily life. You can return to all of your normal activities.

Dr. Madni does the implantation surgery in an operating room. When the time comes to remove the device, she may do it in the operating room or her office. 

To learn more about mediport placement or schedule an implant, call Dina Madni, MD, or schedule an appointment online.