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Flow characteristics of peripherally inserted central catheters

J F Angle¹, A H Matsumoto, T C Skalak

¹University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, Department of Radiology, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.

Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology : JVIR

|July 1, 1997

Summary

Flow rates of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) vary significantly. Polyurethane PICCs offer better flow than silicone, but some have small inner diameters, limiting use with blood or intralipids.

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Area of Science:

Medical Devices
Vascular Access

Background:

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) have limitations due to small lumina and long lengths.
Clinical use of PICCs can be restricted by their flow capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

To quantitatively analyze the flow capabilities of various PICCs.
To assist in patient selection and appropriate catheter choice for PICCs.

Main Methods:

Evaluated 16 PICCs from 6 manufacturers at flow rates of 25-270 mL/h.
Tested infusions with water, saline, TPN, intralipids, and blood.
Generated flow-pressure curves and recorded catheter dimensions (OD, ID).

Main Results:

Polyurethane PICCs demonstrated superior flow rates compared to silicone PICCs of similar outer diameters.

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Inner diameters ranged from 0.012 to 0.032 inches, making some PICCs impractical for blood or intralipid infusions.

Measured outer diameters were between 4-6 French.

Conclusions:

Significant variability exists in PICC flow performance.
Many PICCs necessitate pressures exceeding those from standard infusion pumps.
Matching PICC characteristics to clinical needs is crucial to prevent complications.