Vascular Services

Benefits of PICC

Benefits of PICC Lines
Long-term central venous access is essential for managing patients with cancer, certain congenital malformations, gastrointestinal malfunction, as well as for those who need long-term access to medications or blood products. Peripherally inserted central catheters address all of these issues. They are considered a safe and effective alternative to other conventional and central venous access devices are less invasive providing long-term access with decreased risks.

The peripherally inserted central catheter has been an established technology in home intravenous therapies and its use has been increasing in hospital and home-health settings. PICCs adequately and safely meet the needs of patients who require short to long-term therapy in many clinical settings. Disease and patient specific selection of any venous access device type is important in minimizing complications and obtaining optimal outcomes. Central venous catheters, other than PICCs, have been established as a reliable source of vascular access since the 1970s. Peripherally inserted central catheters became a popular central catheter in the early 1990s for adults and children. They can actually be considered as a “hybrid” between conventional peripheral venous access devices and central venous catheters as it performs the function of a central venous catheter with the safety of a conventional peripheral venous catheter.

The advantages of peripherally inserted central catheters:
• Long-term venous access
• Low Risk for Infection
• Decreased Skin Puncture for Blood Sampling
• Early Patient Discharge
• Versatility

A PICC is a reliable alternative to short term central venous catheters, with a lower risk of complications and wider range for use. But it is not appropriate for every patient. Indications, contraindications and potential complications must be considered prior to insertion of a PICC line.