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power injectable peripherally inserted central catheters



Clinical experience with power injectable peripherally inserted central catheters in intensive care patients

 
 
Introduction

In intensive care units (ICU), peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) may be an alternative option to standard central venous catheters, particularly in patients with coagulation disorders or at high risk for infection. Some limits of PICCs (such as low flow rates) may be overcome by the use of power-injectable catheters.

Method

We have retrospectively reviewed all the power injectable PICCs inserted in adult and pediatric patients in the ICU during a 12-month period, focusing on the rate of complications at insertion and during maintenance.

Results

We have collected 89 power injectable PICCs (in adults and in children), both multiple and single lumen. All insertions were successful. There were no major complications at insertion and no episodes of catheter-related blood stream infection. Non-infective complications during management were not clinically significant. There was one episode of symptomatic thrombosis during the stay in ICU and one episode after transfer of the patient in a non-intensive ward.

Conclusions
Power injectable PICCs have many advantages in the ICU: they can be used as multi-purpose central lines for any type of infusion including high flow infusion, for hemodynamic monitoring, and for high-pressure injection of contrast media during radiological procedures. Their insertion is successful in 100% of cases and is not associated with significant risks, even in patients with coagulation disorders. Their maintenance is associated with an extremely low rate of infective and non-infective complications.



Clinical experience with power injectable peripherally inserted central catheters in intensive care patients - Critical Care 2012, 16:R21, Published: 4 February 2012

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  1. Kate DunkinAugust 14, 2012 at 8:45 AM

    I came across your blog while I was reading about Bard catheters online because my doctor told me they were the best. I'm definitely happy I did because this was a very insightful and intriguing read. I'm going to make sure to show this post to my family. Thank you for sharing with us!

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