The peripherally inserted central catheter: a retrospective look at three years of insertions

The advent of intravenous therapies administered in the home setting has created a demand for the peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC). A variety of PICCs is now on the market, offering choices of insertion methods as well as size and length. This article represents a retrospective look at 858 PICCs inserted over a 3-year period, using three insertion methods: 1) the Seldinger technique, 2) the peel-away sheath, and 3) the break-away needle. A brief history of PICCs along with problems encountered, an account of PICCs in immune-suppressed patients, and principles of catheter management are presented.