Portacath
Portacath
Portacath (pronounced: /ˈpɔːrtəkæθ/), also known as a port, is a small medical appliance that is installed beneath the skin. It is used to administer medication or nutrients directly into the large central veins of the body.
Etymology
The term "Portacath" is a portmanteau of the words "portable" and "catheter". It was first used in the late 20th century, with the development of the device.
Description
A Portacath consists of a reservoir (the port) and a tube (the catheter). The port is implanted under the skin in the upper chest or in the arm and appears as a bump under the skin. It requires no special maintenance and is completely internal so swimming and bathing are not a problem. The catheter runs from the port and is surgically inserted into a vein (usually the jugular vein, subclavian vein, or superior vena cava). Ideally, the catheter terminates in the superior vena cava, near the junction with the right atrium. This position allows infused agents to be spread throughout the body quickly and efficiently.
Usage
A Portacath is primarily used for the administration of chemotherapy or other medications, as well as blood products and for the withdrawal of blood. It is also used for patients on long-term intravenous antibiotics, total parenteral nutrition, or chemotherapy.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Portacath
- Wikipedia's article - Portacath
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