The peripherally inserted central venous catheter; friend or foe?

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Vascular Access
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are widely used for long-term intravenous access in various clinical settings.
• Their application is common for drug administration, fluid therapy, and hemodynamic monitoring.
• PICC lines are essential tools in modern patient care, particularly for procedures requiring extended venous access.

Observation:

• A specific, previously unreported complication occurred after peripherally inserted central catheter placement.
• This event took place in the context of a patient undergoing a head and neck surgical procedure.
• The complication highlights potential risks associated with PICC insertion prior to specific surgical interventions.

Findings:

• The case report details a novel complication associated with peripherally inserted central catheter use.
• A comprehensive review of the existing literature on complications arising from PICC insertion was conducted.
• The findings underscore the importance of vigilance regarding potential adverse events even with routine procedures.

Implications:

• This report expands the understanding of potential risks associated with peripherally inserted central catheters.
• Awareness of this complication may inform clinical practice and patient safety protocols for PICC insertion, especially before head and neck procedures.
• Further research into the incidence and management of this specific complication is warranted to improve patient outcomes.