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Catheter-related colonization associated with percutaneous inserted central catheters
Summary
Prolonged use of percutaneous inserted central catheters (PICCs) showed low infectious risks. While some catheter sites showed colonization, bloodstream infections did not increase with extended dwell times.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Devices
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Percutaneous inserted central catheters (PICCs) are crucial for long-term intravenous therapy.
- Concerns exist regarding the infectious risks associated with prolonged indwelling times of PICCs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential infectious complications of maintaining PICCs for extended durations.
- To assess the colonization rates of PICC insertion sites and catheter segments.
Main Methods:
- Cultures were obtained from 100 PICC insertion sites and catheter segments upon removal.
- Catheters had indwelling times ranging from 2 to 43 days.
- Microbial analysis focused on colonization at insertion sites, catheter segments, and tips.
Main Results:
- Colonization was observed in 11% of patients at insertion sites and/or catheter segments.
- Distal catheter tip colonization was infrequent, occurring in only four patients.
- No cases of bacteremia were directly attributed to the extended dwell time of the PICCs.
Conclusions:
- Maintaining PICCs for prolonged periods (2-43 days) is associated with a low incidence of infectious complications.
- Insertion site colonization is more common than distal catheter tip colonization.
- Extended PICC dwell times did not lead to an increased risk of bacteremia in this study cohort.