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Chemotherapy: FOLFOX

What Happens During a Continuous FOLFOX Infusion

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After infusion in the cancer treatment center:

  • A small container (usually a plastic bottle) filled with 5-FU will be attached to your port via an i.v. line.
    • There are two types of containers: those which are self contained and those with a pump attached. Which type you receive generally depends on the practice at the cancer treatment center.
    • Self contained containers rely on your internal body temperature and pressure to draw the chemo through the i. v. line and into your port.
    • Pumps are generally noiseless.
    • The container (and pump) is usually provided in a fanny pack or other case to make it easy to carry. 
  • FOLFOX will be continuously slowly infused into your system through your port.  
  • Patients generally report that there is no pain or discomfort during a continuous FOLFOX infusion.
    • If you are undergoing FOLFOX 4, you will swap the 22 hour supply for another 22 hour supply.
    • If you are undergoing FOLFOX 6, the infusion continues for 46 hours - 48 hours.

Disconnecting The Set Up At The End Of Each Infusion

  • The infusing device will indicate when it is empty.
  • When the infusing device is empty, it must be disconnected from your port.
  • Disconnecting the infusion device is a very simple procedure, but must be done correctly.
    • First the line and port are flushed with a saline solution, then with an agent to keepthe port from clotting such as heparin. It takes about two minutes to flush the tubing.
    • Then the needle is pulled out. According to an experienced oncology nurse, it takes a quick, smooth movement.
    • The disconnecting process should be covered with a drape to prevent chemo medication leaking which can be painful to the skin. 
  • It is generally recommended that the first disconnection be done at the treatment center so you or whoever will remove the set up can be supervised while doing it.  After that you can be trained to do the disconnection yourself, you can have a family member or friend get trained to do it for you, or you can return to the treatment center for a nurse to take care of it for you.
  • The container should either be returned to the medical facility for proper disposal during your next visit, or you should dispose of it at a facility that disposes of bio-hazard material.

For information about living during a continuing FOLFOX infusion, click here.


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