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Previous PICC placement may be associated with catheter-related infections in hemodialysis patients
Philip J Butler1, Shreya Sood, Hamid Mojibian
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208042 (SP2-323), New Haven, CT 06520-8042, USA. philip.butler@yale.edu
Insights
History of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) is linked to increased catheter-related infections (CRIs) in hemodialysis patients. This finding suggests PICC use may be a modifiable risk factor for CRIs, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Access
Background:
- Catheter-related infections (CRIs) are a major cause of illness and death in hemodialysis patients.
- Identifying new, treatable risk factors for CRIs is crucial for enhancing patient care.
- Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) may lead to vascular damage and thrombosis, which are implicated in CRIs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between prior peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placement and the incidence of catheter-related infections (CRIs) in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of chronic hemodialysis catheter placements and exchanges was conducted.
- PICC line history was identified through radiologic records.
- Catheter-related complications were assessed and correlated with PICC line history.
Main Results:
- Of 185 patients with 713 hemodialysis catheter placements, 38 (20.5%) had a history of PICC use.
- Patients with a history of PICC placement had a significantly higher likelihood of developing CRIs (OR = 2.46, P < .001).
- No significant differences in age or the number of catheters placed were observed between groups.
Conclusions:
- Previous peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placement is associated with an increased risk of catheter-related infections (CRIs) in hemodialysis patients.
Background:
Catheter-related infections (CRIs) are a significant source of morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis patients. The identification of novel, modifiable risk factors for CRIs may lead to improved outcomes in this population. Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) have been hypothesized to compromise vascular access due to vascular damage and venous thrombosis, whereas venous thrombosis has been linked to the development of CRIs. Here we examine the association between PICC placement and CRIs.
Methods:
A retrospective review was performed of all chronic hemodialysis catheter placements and exchanges performed at a large university hospital from September 2003 to September 2008. History of PICC line use was determined by examining hospital radiologic records from December 1993 to September 2008. Catheter-related complications were assessed and correlated with PICC line history.
Results:
One hundred eighty-five patients with 713 chronic tunneled hemodialysis catheter placements were identified. Thirty-eight of those patients (20.5%) had a history of PICC placement; these patients were more likely to have CRIs (odds ratio = 2.46, 95% confidence interval = 1.71-3.53, p < .001) compared with patients without a history of PICC placement. There was no difference between the two groups in age or number of catheters placed.
Conclusion:
Previous PICC placement may be associated with catheter-related infections in hemodialysis patients.
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