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Peripherally inserted central catheter ports: A vascular access specialist's systematic approach
Theodoros Katsoulas1, Maria Kapritsou2, Evan Alexandrou3
1Assistance Professor, Faculty of Nursing, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
Summary
This study offers a systematic approach for vascular access specialists to improve the success of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) port placement. It provides tips to minimize complications for patients needing long-term chemotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Oncology Nursing
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Implanted ports are crucial for long-term chemotherapy in cancer patients.
- Peripherally placed ports are a safe, cost-effective, and less invasive alternative to chest-placed ports.
- Bedside placement by specialist nurses is feasible, reducing healthcare costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide vascular access specialists with a systematic approach for peripheral port placement.
- To offer technical tips and tricks to enhance placement success rates.
- To minimize mechanical and latent complications associated with peripheral port insertion.
Main Methods:
- A systematic approach is presented for peripheral port placement.
- Technical advice, tips, and tricks are detailed to guide specialists.
- Focus on avoiding complications like vein puncture, bleeding, thrombosis, skin dehiscence, catheter migration, and infections.
Main Results:
- Enhanced success rates for peripheral port placement.
- Reduced incidence of mechanical complications (e.g., repeated puncture, bleeding, thrombosis, dehiscence).
- Minimized latent complications, including catheter migration and catheter-related blood stream infections.
Conclusions:
- A systematic approach improves peripheral port placement outcomes.
- Technical guidance is essential for vascular access specialists to reduce complications.
- Peripherally placed ports offer a safe and effective vascular access solution for cancer patients.