Alternatives to a PICC

[PizzaPower]

Apologies just come to me and wondering if anyone has any advice (will obviously be contacting hospital as soon as I can).

Quick background. I’ve posted before. Diagnosed with Cancer in my Oesophagus Nov 15. Had rounds of Chemo and it removed May 16.
Unfortunately it spread and is now terminal.

I have been referred to a different hospital for a chemo not offered at home. However it is still weekly IV over a significant number of weeks.

Previously I’ve had a PICC line due to difficulties getting a cannula in. The issue is I’ve had two, one in each arm. And the last time it was suggested due to the scarring (internally) they wouldn’t get another one in.

Is there another alternative to either a cannula or PICC. I’m looking at 10 + cycles (each weekly treatment with 4th off, so 30+ treatments).

Apologies, just woke up panicking about it! Definitely cannot cope with a weekly cannula (needle phobic) and already requiring daily injections due to clot picked up on my last scan.

[hedwig2001]

I guess they might use a Hickman line instead. <a class="break-all" href="https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk/resources/patient-information/radiology/having-a-Hickman-line-insertion.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwi5_--ZterYAhWEC8AKHfTKB9wQFjAWegQIExAB&usg=AOvVaw1A1k-UbFIKolUjuOXYgqPv" rel="nofollow noindex" target="blank">www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk/resources/patient-information/radiology/having-a-Hickman-line-insertion.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwi5--ZterYAhWEC8AKHfTKB9wQFjAWegQIExAB&usg=AOvVaw1A1k-UbFIKolUjuOXYgqPv

[PizzaPower]

Thanks @hedwig2001 that’s a really useful link.
I couldn’t face all those cannula alternatives, to the point of even stopping treatment over it. Good to hear there is an alternative.
Might get some sleep now!

[GlitterandSequins]

Another alternative is a port, it sits under the skin so isn't visible and has made my chemo so much easier as my veins were quickly giving up on me. The procedure to have it fitted is painless but uncomfortable but only takes about 30 mins and they can stay in as long as required.

www.macmillan.org.uk/information-and-support/treating/chemotherapy/being-treated-with-chemotherapy/implantable-ports.html

[PizzaPower]

Thank you @GlitterandSequins , I really appreciate you both taking time out to help put my mind at rest, and providing those links.
Slightly embarrassing because I could have done the research myself, but I was getting myself really wound up over it.

[SD1978]

For us (Aus) port is usually how we go- it’s under the skin, and accessed with a very small bore needle- not painful to access. Also less infection risk that a Hickman as not exposed at all between treatments. Hickman lines like PICCs have a higher infection rate, fit to being exposed, need to be dressed and kept sterile. Definitely see if it’s an option at your treating hospital.

[blahblahblah2000]

Yes ports are usually used. The nurse has to still access it with a needle each time though, however you can request they use a numbing patch over it beforehand each time which prevents any sensation of the needle going in.

[PizzaPower]

Once again thanks for all your comments.
Just to let you know I'm having a Port put in hopefully next Tuesday before the Chemo starts.

[SD1978]

Glad to hear. They are the safest from an infection control perspective, least intrusive, and not painfull. All the best with your treatment xx

[Northumberlandlass]

My Mum had a hickman line and she was fine with it. Very easy to use - only issue was keeping the risk of infection at bay. Mum had AML.
But far less intrusive than the alternative.

to you

[TwitterQueen1]

OP, you're very welcome to join all of us on the cancer support thread here

Loads of experience, help, advice and many listening ears when you need a rant.

[PizzaPower]

Thanks @TwitterQueen1
I'll have a look at it. Just in my way home, I've had my Port installed and first cycle of the new regime today!
Ready to hit the bed when I get in.