David you are right about the nasty side effects making a port useful to those who have radiation by itself. I was told the port I got was to save my veins. Chemo has a reputation for ruining even the best veins. Thats why I got the port as I previously had very good veins that were easy to stick. Now, even 5 years later my veins arent the same as they were before all the treatments so the port was very helpful.

Remember they are those of us, right or wrong, that simply refuse to get that PEG. I was one and man without that PEG, that port would have REALLY come in handy for my stubborn butt.

I'm so glad I discovered this site! We're only at the beginning stage of this and already the information is so useful! Karen, you were right! Instead of 3 hours, it was about 6. They did the anti-nausea, steroid, a lot of fluid, the two drugs and sent him home with the pump/FU-5. So far so good.

Chiming in here.... I am to start both chemo and radiation on the 8th (perhaps later if I do the Erbitux/Cisplatin trial). On the 1st, I go in for my port. I was told I will be grateful for it down the road since it makes giving of drugs and fluids that much easier, and will keep my veins from being damaged.
After gaining some knowledge from this forum, I asked about a PEG. All 3 primary docs said that unless my weight drops by 10%+, they don't want to go that route. Reasoning is that muscles used to swallow etc will basically atrophy; also they feel that the more I am involved in getting/maintaining my sustenance, the better all around. Makes sense to me, but if the time comes where I need a PEG, I will swallow my pride -if nothing else - (bad pun) and not argue.

I thought that would be your day Diane. How is Paul feeling tonight?

Lyn,

Before you swallow your pride and opt for the PEG, discuss the nasal tube with your docs. Accomplishes the same goal without any surgery. I had one and IMO it's the only sensible option.

My husband's ENT mentioned the NG tube as a possibitly, but noted that they had experience issues with displayed metastasis from the primary tumor further down the pipe. They have some method of avoiding this (don't remember what, sorry), but won't hurt to ask about it, if the tube would go by the tumor.
Maria

Maria,

You are the first person that has mentioned this displayed mets theory. So is this ENT suggesting that the nasal tube rubbing against the primary could break off some cells which could attach themselves to other squamious cells and start a new tumor?

Yes. If I remember correctly, the solution was to position a sleeve by the tumor so that the tube could pass through safely without getting stuck. This could be an issue with a very large tumor that the tube could come in contact with.

lynney0814- Paul's port was used for the first time yesterday. They drew blood and ran his chemo. He said all he felt was a little prick, less then when they draw from the vein. In addition he didn't have to worry about them finding a vein or the vein rolling. Worked out well.

Also, I wish you the best of success in your upcoming treatment.