Which statement correctly describes an implanted subcutaneous port?

Which statement correctly describes an implanted subcutaneous port?

• A. It is a metal sheet with self-sealing silicone septum.
• B. It cannot be used for long-term therapy.
• C. It has a high infection risk compared to CVADs.
• D. It is accessed through an external lumen without skin puncture.

Answer: (A)

An implanted subcutaneous port is a small reservoir placed under the skin, typically housed in a metal shell, with a self-sealing silicone septum that repeatedly accommodates needle access. The key feature is that you insert a needle through the skin into the septum to draw blood or deliver therapy, and the septum immediately seals after each puncture, allowing many uses without leaking. This design supports long-term therapy, which is why the statement that it cannot be used long-term is not correct. While it does carry an infection risk, it is generally lower than external central venous access devices because there is no continuously exposed lumen. The port is accessed by piercing the skin with a needle, not through an external lumen without skin puncture, so that option isn’t accurate either.

An implanted subcutaneous port is a small reservoir placed under the skin, typically housed in a metal shell, with a self-sealing silicone septum that repeatedly accommodates needle access. The key feature is that you insert a needle through the skin into the septum to draw blood or deliver therapy, and the septum immediately seals after each puncture, allowing many uses without leaking. This design supports long-term therapy, which is why the statement that it cannot be used long-term is not correct. While it does carry an infection risk, it is generally lower than external central venous access devices because there is no continuously exposed lumen. The port is accessed by piercing the skin with a needle, not through an external lumen without skin puncture, so that option isn’t accurate either.