Medical Device Procedures

Our expert surgeons offer two specialized procedures: Port placement and removal for patients requiring long-term medication access and loop recorder removal for those who have completed heart rhythm monitoring. 

Port Placement and Removal

Port placement surgery involves implanting a small, medical-grade device under the skin, usually in the chest, to provide long-term, reliable access to a vein. This is commonly recommended for patients undergoing chemotherapy, long-term IV treatments, or frequent blood draws, reducing the need for repeated needle sticks. Conversely, port removal surgery is performed when a port is no longer needed, ensuring a smooth and safe removal process once treatment is complete. 

Loop Recorder Removal

A loop recorder is a small device implanted to continuously monitor heart rhythms and detect irregularities such as arrhythmias or unexplained fainting episodes. However, once a cardiologist has gathered enough information from the recorder, or if the device is no longer needed, it can be removed via a loop recorder removal procedure.

Benefits of a Medical Device Procedure

Medical device procedures provide patients essential support for diagnosis, treatment, and overall health management. These procedures enhance comfort, convenience, and long-term care by reducing the need for repeated needle sticks, enabling continuous heart monitoring, and ensuring timely removal when a device is no longer necessary. 

Other specific benefits for each medical device procedure include:

• Port Placement: Provides long-term, reliable vein access for chemotherapy, IV treatments, or frequent blood draws, reducing discomfort from repeated needle sticks.
• Port Removal: Safely removes the port once treatment is complete, eliminating infection risks and allowing the body to heal.
• Loop Recorder Removal: Ensures the device is removed safely after sufficient heart monitoring, preventing unnecessarily prolonged implantation.

At Premier Surgical Network, our skilled surgeons perform these procedures with precision and care, helping patients progress with treatment and recovery.

Are You a Candidate?

Not everyone is a candidate for a medical device procedure, as eligibility depends on individual health conditions, medical history, and specific treatment needs. This is why our board-certified surgeons carefully evaluate each patient to determine the safest and most effective approach. 

However, in general, the following cases indicate a patient may be a good candidate:

• Port Placement: Patients undergoing long-term IV treatments, chemotherapy, or frequent blood draws who need a more convenient and comfortable vein access option.
• Port Removal: Patients who no longer require their port for treatment and have received medical clearance for safe removal.
• Loop Recorder Removal: Patients who have completed the necessary heart rhythm monitoring and no longer need continuous cardiac data recording.

What to Expect

Before the Procedure

Before your medical device procedure, your surgeon will review your medical history, explain the process, and discuss the potential for any specific risks or expected outcomes. You may need pre-procedure testing, such as blood work or imaging, and will receive instructions on medications, fasting, and preparation for the day of your procedure.

During the Procedure

Most medical device procedures are minimally invasive and performed as outpatient surgeries, meaning you can go home the same day. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia or light sedation and usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on complexity.

After the Procedure

Afterward, you will be monitored briefly before being discharged with post-procedure care instructions. Mild soreness or swelling at the surgical site is normal and should improve within a few days. Your surgeon will schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure proper healing and address concerns.

Recovering from a Medical Device Procedure

Recovery after a medical device procedure, such as loop recorder removal or port placement, is typically smooth and manageable. Most patients experience some mild soreness, swelling, or bruising at the surgical site, which usually subsides within a few days. 

Depending on the procedure, your surgeon may also recommend avoiding strenuous activities and keeping the incision area clean and dry to promote proper healing. For those experiencing mild pain, over-the-counter pain medication is usually sufficient to manage the discomfort. While most patients can resume normal activities shortly after surgery, following any specific post-procedure instructions provided by your surgeon is essential. 

Risks and Side Effects

• Mild pain, swelling, or bruising at the surgical site.
• Temporary tenderness or discomfort around the incision.
• Minor bleeding or drainage from the wound.
• A feeling of tightness or pressure in the area where the device was placed or removed.
• Infection at the incision site, which may require antibiotics.
• Device-related issues, such as irritation or movement of an implanted port.
• Blood clots in rare cases, particularly with port placements.

In addition to these risks, some patients may experience sensitivity to surgical materials, requiring additional evaluation. If you notice persistent pain, redness, or swelling, contact your provider immediately.