High rate of complications associated with peripherally inserted central venous catheters in patients with solid tumours
Date
2004
Authors
Cheong, K.
Perry, D.
Karapetis, C.
Koczwara, B.
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Journal article
Citation
Internal Medicine Journal, 2004; 34(5):234-238
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K. Cheong, D. Perry, C. Karapetis and B. Koczwara
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Abstract
<h4>Background</h4>Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) have been used extensively as a cost-effective and safe form of medium-term intravascular access. There are only limited data about complications of PICC lines in oncology patients despite theoretical concerns about the higher risks of complications in these patients as a result of cancer itself and cancer therapy.<h4>Aims</h4>To document the frequency and type of PICC complications in patients with solid tumours.<h4>Methods</h4>All patients with solid tumours who were treated at Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia between January 2000 and March 2001 were included in a retrospective review of PICC complications.<h4>Results</h4>Twenty-seven PICC lines were inserted in 17 patients; 40.7% (11/27) of PICC lines developed complications requiring early removal of the PICC. Complications encountered were sepsis (systemic and cellulitis), thrombosis, blockage and leakage. Septic complications were found at a rate of 8/1000 PICC days or 25.7% (7/27) of PICC inserted. The median dwell time was 20 days. The mean time for a complication to occur was 27.5 days.<h4>Conclusions</h4>The present study demonstrates a high rate of complications, which is higher than the complication rates reported in studies of non-oncology patients. PICC lines should be used with caution in patients with solid tumours. Prospective studies of the factors influencing the incidence of complications might be warranted.
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