Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A few days before the procedure, a pre-assessment nurses will contact you to go through your pre-assessment screening questionnaire. This typically happens over the phone.
Not usually. Dr. Simpson will have access to the blood test results taken by your oncologist or clinical team, and no additional blood tests are typically required for these procedures.
Most medications can be continued. However, if you are taking blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants), it’s important to inform Dr. Simpson or the pre-assessment nurse for guidance on when to temporarily stop these before the procedure.
No, a full General Anaesthetic is not necessary for any of the procedures. Local anaesthetic drugs are used to numb the area completely before starting. You may choose to have some sedation in addition to the local anaesthetic, which Dr. Simpson, as an anaesthetist, can provide safely if desired.
If you’re not opting for sedation, there is no requirement to fast. However, if sedation is preferred, you’ll be asked to fast from food at least 4 hours before the procedure. Sipping water is allowed until the procedure.
Portacath Insertion: Average time is 40 minutes.
Tunnelled CVC Insertion: Average time is 30 minutes.
PICC Insertion: Average time is 15 minutes.
Normal activity is fine but avoid exercise and lifting/straining for 48 hours to minimise bruising. Keep the area dry after insertion, with no bathing/swimming for 14 days. PICCs require weekly saline flushing, regular dressing changes, and should be kept as dry as possible. Tunnelled CVADs need to be kept dry for 2-4 weeks initially, with saline flushing once per month after. Ports should be kept dry for the first 72 hours and flushed with saline once per month.
The local anaesthetic provides numbness for a few hours. Simple painkillers like Paracetamol and Ibuprofen can manage mild discomfort or pain. Most people describe a dull ache in the chest, collarbone, or neck area for a few days.
No, all CVADs can be used right away. Nurses perform a preliminary check before each treatment to ensure the device is functioning well. For treatments via a port that are commencing that same day or the following day, a special Huber needle is left attached ready, making the first treatment a better experience.
All devices are safe for plain film x-rays, CT scans, and MRI under certain conditions. It’s crucial to inform the radiographer of the device type for CT scans involving contrast. Ports used by Dr. Simpson are compatible with CT contrast, but no tunnelled CVADs can currently be used for contrast injection. All devices inserted are MRI conditional.
OPENING HOURS
| Monday | 14:00 – 20:00 |
| Tuesday | 18:00 – 20:00 |
| Wednesday | 18:00 – 20:00 |
| Friday | 14:00 – 20:00 |
OFFICE LOCATIONS
