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Instructions for emergency unfill or deflation for health care providers
- Examine the patient and try to locate the port. The port is situated either in the left flank (largest scar) or just beneath the breastbone
- If you cannot find the port, do a fluoroscopy and you will immediately see its position A fluoroscopy or X-ray will also inform you about the band position. Normally oblique from top left to right. If the band is in an horizontal position or a reversed oblique position, this indicates a pouch or even a slippage
- Deflate the band under aseptic conditions by inserting a special needle (Huber needle for port-a-cath) or a conventional subcutaneous (24 gauge) needle right in the centre of the port and push hard till you hit the titanium plate at the bottom of the port (you hear or feel a “click”). Aspirate ALL the fluid (see photographs)
- If blind insertion of the needle is too difficult do it under fluoroscopic guidance. Do a barium swallow after the deflation or ask the patient to drink, to check the result of the unfill
- Prescribe a proton pump inhibitor and tell the patient to stay on liquids for at least ten days
- If you experience difficulties, please contact us on
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