My doc gives me a shot of lidocaine before he does a fill, is this standard for getting fills? I'd like to know if there's much of a difference in pain level with or without the lidocaine.

I almost always have the lidocaine. My port is extremely difficult to access and I have to get into many different positions even with flouro. I am usually standing up to have a fill! My port is flipped but at this point the dr. is still able to access it. He told me that next time, if it is as difficult to access as it has been the last 2 times, then I should probably have my port replaced. It doesn't seem to be a difficult procedure so I am considering the replacement. I am happy for those of you that have easy fills but it's not like that for everyone.

Jenn

I have the PAC do my fills. She is very good and I have never felt any discomfort. She is in and out in a few seconds. No lidocaine.

I get the lidocaine shot everytime..I'm at 5cc in a 10cc band

My doc does the lidocaine routinely. I wasn't entirely sure I needed it, but after I thought about it, I wondered if that's how he gets my fills covered on my insurance. If it is, bless him....... I'll take the extra stick.

The first three times I had a fill my doctor used the lidocaine but this last time (Monday, May 11) he used a spray freezing stuff and that was it. I really don't think I need that either but that is how he does it. I didn't have any pain meds after surgery at all, could not believe how great I felt!!!!!!!!!!! Had gallbladder surgery last year and only took one pain pill the whole recovery time!

The first fill I got was with the lidocaine. Lucy me..I was allergic to it so the after effects were long lasting.

No more lidocaine for me but no pain with the small prick either.

My first fill was done with the Lidocaine and it hurt like a bee sting, the second I told them no Lidocaine and I did not feel a thing. I had a port for my chemo and never had it numbed so I will always go without from now on.

Bernadette

PS I agree with the others, why get stuck twice??