Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 12, 2026
Competing-Risk Nomogram for Predicting Cancer-Specific Survival in Multiple Primary Colorectal Cancer Patients after Surgery
Published on: September 27, 2024
Comparison of Tunneled vs Traditional PICCs in Cancer Patients: A Propensity Score-Matched Study
1Author Affiliations: Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nanxishan Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guilin, China (Xu); Day Chemotherapy Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China (Lu); Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China (Wei); Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China (Ying).
Objective:
The aim of the study was to compare complication rates and laboratory outcomes between tunneled and conventional peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) in cancer patients using propensity score matching (PSM).
Methods:
This single-center retrospective cohort study, which took place from 2021 to 2023, included 418 patients. After 1:1 PSM, 113 matched patients were analyzed in each group. Complication rates and laboratory indicators were compared. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for infection and catheter displacement.
Results:
Compared to traditional PICCs, tunneled PICCs were associated with lower infection (6.19% vs 17.70%; P = .014), phlebitis (0% vs 27.43%; P < .001), and catheter displacement rates (33.63% vs 60.18%; P < .001). Regression analysis confirmed reduced risks of infection (OR = 3.257, 95% CI: 1.32-8.02; P = .011) and displacement (OR = 2.982, 95% CI: 1.81-4.91; P < .001). Laboratory analysis showed significantly higher white blood cell (WBC) levels, neutrophil percentages, absolute neutrophil counts, and prothrombin time in the tunneled group (P < .05). In contrast, lymphocyte percentage and monocyte percentage were lower in the tunneled group (P < .05).
Conclusions:
Tunneled PICCs may provide a safer and more stable vascular access option than conventional PICCs in oncology patients. Further prospective studies are warranted.
