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Complications associated with peripherally inserted central catheter use during pregnancy
Janelle M Ogura1, Karrie E Francois, Jordan H Perlow
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|May 16, 2003
Summary
Pregnant patients using peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) face a high risk of complications, particularly infections. Preterm labor may increase this risk, suggesting alternative treatments are needed.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Vascular Access Devices
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are used in obstetrics for various indications.
- Assessing the safety and complication rates of PICCs in pregnant patients is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the complications associated with peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) use in an obstetrics population.
- To determine the incidence and types of complications in antepartum patients requiring PICC placement.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive retrospective review was conducted.
- Data were collected from obstetrics patients who received a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) during the antepartum period.
- The study period spanned 5 years at a single institution.
Main Results:
- A complication rate of 50% was observed in 52 cases.
- Infectious complications included culture-proved line infection (17%) and presumed line infection (12%).
- Other complications included cellulitis (8%), mechanical line failure (8%), pain requiring discontinuation (4%), and superficial thrombophlebitis (2%).
- Preterm labor was associated with an increased risk of PICC complications (P = .012).
Conclusions:
- Pregnant patients are at significant risk for infectious complications when using peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs).
- Alternative treatment strategies should be considered to minimize risks.
- Further research into safer vascular access options for obstetrics patients is warranted.