Mediport Access Ports: Understanding and Care

Mediports are subcutaneous access ports implanted under the skin. They provide a way for long-term venous access without multiple needle pricks. They are used for treatments such as chemotherapy, intravenous medication and blood transfusions.

Implantion

• Mediports are usually implanted in the patient's chest. A small bump can be felt under the skin. This bump is the access into which the needle is inserted. Tubing can be attached to the port. A mediport can remain in place for long-term use if cared for properly.

Liquids

• Different types of solution can be used to flush a mediport.

  Flushing the mediport is necessary to keep the device open and usable. They can be flushed with normal saline or heparin. Heparin is an anti-clotting medication. The flushing solution is drawn into a syringe and injected into the port. Typically, normal saline is flushed through the port followed by heparin. A health care provider such as a physician will determine the amount and type of flushing solution.

Frequency

• A physician will determine how often the mediport is to be flushed, typically, after every use. Those not used on a regular basis should be flushed every four weeks to maintain the port's ability to be accessed. Patients and family members can be trained by a medical professional on how to flush a mediport.