PICC Insertion: Understanding Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters

A PICC, or peripherally inserted central catheter, is a long, narrow tube. It is inserted in a vein in the upper arm and advanced until it reaches the superior vena cava, a large vein above the heart.

Uses

• A PICC is inserted for several types of treatments including delivering antibiotics, chemotherapy, blood and nutritional products.

Types

• A PICC may be a single open tube, called a lumen, or it may be bifurcated, meaning it has two separated areas within the larger tube. PICCs come in a variety of sizes that are selected based on both the patient and the intended use.

Duration

• A PICC is normally used for approximately two to six weeks. However, they may be kept in place for as long as a year with proper maintenance.

Procedure Location

• PICC insertions are performed in hospitals as an in-patient procedure for a patient at the hospital. It can also be performed on an out-patient basis, after which the patient may return home.

Complications

• The complications associated with a PICC occur very rarely, but may include non-dangerous clotting, infection, pulmonary embolism and allergic reaction to the latex or anesthetic used during the procedure.