Why was port removed? If there was a thrombosis, I would wait for several months for complete resolution of that thrombosis. You might also encounter some vessel stenosis that would prevent advancement of the PICC passed the point of the port catheter entry into the vein. If no recent thrombosis, I would certainly attempt that ipsilateral side if the opposite side has some other more critical reason to avoid it. It all comes down to your complete assessment of history of patient, VADs, complications, etc.
Why was port removed? If there was a thrombosis, I would wait for several months for complete resolution of that thrombosis. You might also encounter some vessel stenosis that would prevent advancement of the PICC passed the point of the port catheter entry into the vein. If no recent thrombosis, I would certainly attempt that ipsilateral side if the opposite side has some other more critical reason to avoid it. It all comes down to your complete assessment of history of patient, VADs, complications, etc.
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861