Peripherally inserted central catheter

Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter

A Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC or PIC line) is a form of intravenous access that can be used for a prolonged period of time (e.g., for long chemotherapy regimens, extended antibiotic therapy, or total parenteral nutrition).

Indications

PICC lines are used for patients who need long-term intravenous therapy. This could be for the administration of antibiotics, chemotherapy, parenteral nutrition, or other medications. They can also be used for the withdrawal of blood for analysis.

Procedure

The PICC line is inserted in a peripheral vein, such as the cephalic vein, basilic vein, or brachial vein, and then advanced through increasingly larger veins, until the tip rests in the superior vena cava or cavoatrial junction.

Complications

Possible complications of a PICC include infection, thrombosis, and vein perforation.

See also

• Central venous catheter
• Port (medical)
• Intravenous therapy

External links

• PICC Excellence, Inc.
• Association for Vascular Access

Peripherally inserted central catheter Resources
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