Peripherally inserted central catheters--review and case reports

Patients have been receiving intravenous therapies in their homes since the early 1980s. Peripherally inserted central catheters have recently played a major part in the successful transition from hospital to home. These catheters are less invasive, have a lower overall infection rate and are less costly than other central venous catheters. This review and presentation of two case studies illustrates the advantages of this type of catheter for patients receiving home intravenous therapy.