"Extended subcutaneous route" technique: a quick subcutaneous tunnelling technique for PICC insertion
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Stefano Elli1, Chiara Abbruzzese1, Luigi Cannizzo1
1Emergency Department and Intensive Care, University of Milan-Bicocca, A.S.S.T. Monza, San Gerardo Hospital, Monza (MB) - Italy.
Purpose:
To describe a quick tunnelling technique for peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) insertion called the "extended subcutaneous route" technique.
Methods:
The "extended subcutaneous route" technique is described step by step.
Results:
In 18 consecutive PICCs, inserted with extended route technique in ASST Monza, no complications during insertion were registered. In 969 catheter days observed, we identified only one accidental dislodgement. No other mid-term complications were observed.
Conclusions:
Extended subcutaneous route technique allows the creation of a subcutaneous tunnel <5 cm, without skin incision and additional manipulation. Extended subcutaneous route technique may be feasible and useful, particularly for patients with high risk of bleeding or infection.
