FAQS

Will the PowerFlow® IV Port affect my daily life?

After the port has been placed and the small incision has healed, you should be able to return to your daily life. Ask your doctor or nurse about specific activities and when you can resume them.

Will I need to wear a bandage over the PowerFlow® IV Port?

A bandage will be needed until the incision heals. Afterwards, a bandage is not required when the port is not in use. During your treatment, a bandage may be applied to secure the needle.

Do I have to stop wearing certain types of clothes?

Ask your doctor or nurse. The answer will depend on where your PowerFlow® IV Port is placed.

Would insurance pay for the PowerFlow® IV Port?

Insurance policies vary. Please check with your insurance company.

Will the PowerFlow® IV Port set off security alarms?

Security systems may detect the small amount of metal in the port. If this happens, show your Patient Identification Card.

How long will I have my PowerFlow® IV Port?

The IV port can stay in place as long as your doctor makes sure that it works and that you still need it.

Can the PowerFlow® IV Port device be removed if I no longer need it?

Yes. The port can be removed with a minor surgical procedure similar to the one used to place it.

Can I get a CT procedure with the PowerFlow® IV Port?

Yes. The materials used in the PowerFlow® IV Port are safe for use in CT and CECT procedures.

Can I get an MRI procedure with the PowerFlow® IV Port in place?

Yes. You may get an MRI with the PowerFlow® IV Port. There are specific conditions for the MRI procedure, so ask your doctor for more information about MRI safety.

What risks does a PowerFlow® port present?

Unfortunately, a port is not for everyone—especially patients with a history of blood clots, had previous vascular access surgery, or who are not emotionally prepared to have an implanted medical device. Like any vascular access procedure, there is always a risk of complications, including venous blood clots, skin erosion, infection, a collapsed lung, or clotting of the port catheter. Talk to your physician or nurse about these and other risks, and whether a port or other treatments are right for you.

Who should not receive the PowerFlow® IV Port?

Patients who:

• Have or are suspected of having an infection
• Have a history of forming blood clots
• Have a body size that will not allow for proper port placement or port access
• Have had the port insertion site exposed to radiation
• Are not emotionally prepared to have an implanted medical device

What are the possible complications associated with an implantable port?

A port is not for everyone. It is important that you talk with your physician or nurse about the risks associated with a port and port use.   Potential complications include:

• Blood clot formation
• Redness and inflammation at the port insertion site
• Skin erosion
• Bleeding at the insertion site
• Scarring at the insertion site
• Port catheter breakage
• Irregular heart beat
• Vein erosion
• Allergic reaction to the materials of the port
• Port rotation or flipping while implanted
• Leakage of medicine or IV fluid from the port
• Improper port access leading to medicine or IV fluid being injected into tissue that surrounds the port
• Port clogging

• Potential complications include:
• Internal bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Collapsed lung
• Fluid buildup around the lungs
• Blood clot formation
• Accidental cutting or puncturing of blood vessels

What if I have a question or suspect a problem?

After the procedure you will see some redness and tenderness in the area. This should go away in 24 to 48 hours. However, contact your doctor or nurse if you notice unusual changes in the skin such as increased swelling, redness or soreness. If you have pain, fever, chills, shortness of breath, or dizziness, contact your doctor right away.

What if my doctor or nurse is unavailable?

You should be given a wallet-sized Medical Alert Identification Card. This card has important information about the port. With this information, other medical personnel will be able to help you.