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Supraventricular tachycardia precipitated by a peripherally inserted central catheter
R J Verdino1, D S Pacifico, C M Tracy
1Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, 20007
Journal of Electrocardiology
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Peripherally inserted central (PIC) catheters can cause heart rhythm problems if advanced too far. This case highlights the risk of supraventricular reentrant tachycardia due to PIC catheter misplacement.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Central venous catheters are crucial for long-term venous access.
- Traditional placement via femoral, subclavian, or internal jugular veins carries risks.
- Peripherally inserted central (PIC) catheters offer an alternative, inserted via peripheral veins.
Observation:
- PIC catheters, due to their small proximal end, can be mistaken for peripheral IVs.
- The distal tip of a PIC catheter may be inadvertently advanced into intracardiac chambers.
- This misplacement can lead to cardiac arrhythmias.
Findings:
- A case of a peripherally inserted central catheter precipitating supraventricular reentrant tachycardia is reported.
- The patient was previously asymptomatic, indicating the catheter's role in arrhythmia induction.
- Premature atrial and ventricular complexes, known triggers, may result from intracardiac catheter placement.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for PIC catheter misplacement to cause significant cardiac events.
- Emphasizes the need for careful monitoring and confirmation of PIC catheter tip position.
- Suggests vigilance for supraventricular tachyarrhythmias in patients with PIC catheters, even if asymptomatic.