A variety of ports are available, and the choice is dependent on a number of factors, for example whether the patient is a child or an adult, the amount of access required and where the port will be located (Fougo [154]). Ports are usually single lumen, although dual‐lumen ports are available (Dougherty [123]). However, dual‐lumen ports have two septums and therefore require needle access into each septum (Wilkes [472]). Port reservoirs (Figure 17.41) are about 2.5 cm in height and 0.625 cm in diameter and can weigh from 21 to 28 g; low‐profile ports are smaller and often placed in the arm (Ives [225]). Entry can be gained via the side or top but most are accessed via the top (Weinstein and Hagle [465]). There are now also CT‐rated ports that allow CT contrast to be administered through the port without causing damage.

Port catheters are made of silicone or polyurethane and may be valved or non‐valved (Biffi et al. [35], [36]). The port body may be made of stainless steel, plastic or titanium, although stainless steel is rarely used now as it interferes with electromagnetic imaging procedures and is quite heavy in comparison with other materials (Dougherty [123]). The self‐sealing silicone septum can be accessed approximately 2000 times (regular size; small ports may take only 750), often dependent on the size of the needle used (Hadaway [194], Wilkes [472]).

Non‐coring needles have the penetration style of a knife so when the needle is removed, the septum closes behind it (Fougo [155], Hadaway [194]) (Figure 17.42). The bevel opens on the side of the needle instead of the end (Gabriel [161], Weinstein and Hagle [465]). Needles are available in straight or 90° angle configurations with or without extension sets (Wilkes [472]) and with a metal or plastic hub in gauges 19–24 and lengths from 0.65 to 2.5 cm. Needle gauge is selected dependent on the type and rate of infusate as well as the location of the port (Dougherty [123], Fougo [155]). Safety needles are also now available and activate on withdrawal from the port; they are recommended for use (HSE [217]).

Prior to accessing a port, topical local anaesthetic may be used over the site (Gorski et al. [182]). While the port is accessed, it is usual to flush it with 0.9% sodium chloride and heparinized saline (50 international units in 5 mL); however, when the needle is due to be removed, a higher strength of heparin is recommended – 100 international units of heparin per millilitre to a total of 5 mL (500 international units) (Blackburn and van Boxtel [41], Wilkes [472]). There is now evidence to suggest that ports can be flushed with 0.9% sodium chloride (Bertoglio et al. [32]) and that flushing less frequently than monthly is both safe and beneficial (Goossens [177], Ignatov et al. [223], Kefeli et al. [240], Kuo et al. [253]).