A study of complications associated with peripherally inserted central catheters in patients receiving chemotherapy in a tertiary hospital

Background: Chemotherapeutic agents are often caustic or irritant solutions that require large high flow venous conduits for safe delivery, provided adequately by central venous access. Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are widely used among hospitalised patients and out-patients for chemotherapy and parenteral nutrition. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the rates of PICC-related complications in a tertiary hospital. Materials and Methods: This was an observational study of 100 patients in whom peripherally inserted central catheters was conducted over a period of two years at a tertiary care hospital. Pertinent demographics as well as catheter related data was collected and analysed. Results: The most commonly inserted line was Groshong 4 Fr, with the most common indication being poor venous access, followed by infusion of 5-fluorouracil and adriamycin chemotherapy. The PICC line was removed in 94 cases after completion of chemotherapy, three lines were removed due to infection (0.29 per 1000 catheter days), and one due to catheter blockage (0.097 per 1000 catheter days). Conclusions: This study showed that PICC lines have a number of advantages, including ease of insertion by trained nursing staff and can be used for various indications, including but not limited to chemotherapy and parenteral nutrition. Proper care ensures fewer complications, which leads to lesser instances of removal.