[flyguy]

I wonder if anyone could offer their experience or opinion re the maximum length of time a Bard dual lumen port can safely go between flushes? I had ATG 1 1/2 years ago and still have the dual port in my chest. I am pretty stable now with HG at 11.2, and Platelets at 47 and see hematologist every 4 weeks for CBC.
Since it's a dual port I usually alternate ports rather than getting both accessed every visit. Last week the doctor said I could come back on a six week interval. This would mean that last month's unaccessed port will not be flushed for 10 weeks. I thought 8 weeks was generally the longest recommended time between accessing ports and told the doctor that. He said he thinks 10 weeks will be fine. Since the nurse had a little difficulty drawing blood from one port after 8 weeks, I'm really concerned about going 10. I'm thinking of calling the lab in a few weeks to see if I can get them to flush the port before 10 weeks. I'll definitely go to getting both flushed when I'm on a 6 week interval.
Thanks
Flyguy