Am I a good candidate for an implanted venous access device?

Q: Am I a good candidate for an implanted venous access device? 

A: A venous access device, or VAD, is a catheter or port that is surgically placed in your body to give access to a major vein. These devices are often used with patients who are receiving long-term chemotherapy, chemotherapy that is infused by a portable pump over days, frequent blood tests, transfusions, or other treatment-related care. Some patients on chemotherapy receive VAD implants, others don't.

Whether you will have a VAD depends upon your treatment plan, the physical condition of your veins, and other factors your doctor will consider. While you're in treatment, your VAD will need to be flushed after each session to keep it from becoming clogged. After treatment ends, you'll need to have it flushed every 4 to 6 weeks.
--Bernice Crook, RN, OCN

Cancer patients have greater risk of blood clots, but can watch for danger signals.