PICC (PERIPHERALLY INSERTED CENTRAL CATHETER/ PICC LINE)
Why it is necessary:
- For administration of chemotherapy, total parenteral nutrition (TPN), blood products. Intravenous medication or fluid for long term period.
Procedure performed by:
Interventional Radiologists
How it performed:
- It is a long, thin tube that’s inserted through a vein in arm and passed through to the larger veins near your heart. Very rarely, the PICC line may be placed in your leg.
Precaution to be taken by patient:
- Care for catheter to prevent its accidental removal and proper dressing to minimize risks like infections and blood clot.
What are benefits:
- To avoid the pain of frequent needle sticks.
- Reduce the risk of irritation to the smaller veins in your arms.
What are risks:
- Blockage (Mainly due to excessive long term use or improper care of catheter).
- Infection (<1%).
