PICC line
What is a PICC and why should I have one?
PICC is an acronym for Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter. It is a plastic catheter that enters the body in a peripheral vein, usually the arm and has a tip in a large central vein, usually in the chest. This allows for reliable and painless access to a vein (i.e. for blood tests or IV drugs) without need for repeated needles or cannulas. In addition, they allow nurses to give you powerful drugs such as chemotherapy or even administer food intravenously (TPN).
What are my other options?
These include repeat venepuncture and IV cannulas; however, these can be unreliable when they fail you may miss scheduled medication administration. Certain drugs must be given through a central line so this is not always a viable alternative. Overall the probability of line related infection is lower with PICC line insertions when compared to standard cannulas.
Is the procedure uncomfortable?
The procedure performed under local anaesthetic and generally very well tolerated. We frequently advise patients that it is similar to having an IV drip inserted. For patients with difficult veins the PICC insertion is often less traumatic as we find the vein with ultrasound.
But my veins are impossible, even the anaesthetist can miss!
We hear this concern frequently. The procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance by a medical specialist with specific expertise in image guided procedures. This is one of the most technically simple procedures we perform and we are successful on the first attempt in the vast majority of cases.
Will I notice the line in my chest?
This is extremely unlikely. Most people only notice pressure and local anaesthetic in their arm at the time of insertion.
How will a PICC insertion affect my lifestyle?
Many patients may be home with a PICC line. Aside from taking care not to pull it out and keeping it dry in the shower it will not impact your lifestyle.
What are the potential risks?
PICC insertions are considered low risk procedures with a low chance of severe complications including:
- Infection (1 in 200 chance)
- Allergic reaction to radiocontrast dye which is severe in less than 1 in 100,000
- Theoretical risks of bleeding, damage to blood vessels or port malfunction which are extremely rare
