Chemotherapy explained

Chemotherapy uses drugs to treat many different types of cancer. It is most commonly given as an injection into a vein or as tablets or capsules.

Chemotherapy treatment can cause different side effects. Your doctor or nurse can help you control and manage them.

Chemotherapy can be given in different ways depending on the type of cancer you have and your treatment plan.

A central line is a long, thin hollow tube. It is inserted into a vein in your chest to give chemotherapy and other drugs.

A PICC line is a long, thin, flexible tube known as a catheter. It is put into the arm to give chemotherapy and other medicines.

A cannula is a short, thin tube that is put into a vein in your arm or the back of your hand for treatment. It will be removed before you go home.

An implantable port is a tube with a rubber disc at the end. It is inserted into a vein to give chemotherapy or other medicines.

Intrathecal chemotherapy is given into the fluid around the brain and spinal cord. This is given during a lumbar puncture.

Chemotherapy can be given directly into a limb to treat cancer that is in one area. You may develop some side effects, mostly in the limb that was treated.