The feasibility of PICC insertion through the veins of lower extremity in neonates

Abstract

Objective To investigate the advantage of detaining peripherally inserted central catheter through the veins of lower extremity in neonatal intensive care unit.Methods 165 cases of infants were randomized into veins of lower extremity group (first saphenous veins,then popliteal vein) and veins of upper extremity group (first basilic vein,then median cubital vein,cephalic veins) from January to December 2012.We observed the success rate of detaining,catheter tip location,and complications such as phlebitis in the two groups.Results The success rate of detaining of lower extremity group was higher than that of upper extremity group,and ectopic rate of lower extremity group was lower than that of upper extremity group.There was no significant difference in complications such as phlebitis between two groups.Conclusions Peripherally inserted central catheter through the veins of lower extremity has more advantage over through the veins of upper extremity group. Key words: Peripherally inserted central catheter; Veins of lower extremity; Neonates; Feasibility