The Ideal Use of the Power Injectable Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter in the Pediatric Population

Abstract

IntroductionThe peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is being used more frequently in pediatric populations in both hospital and home care settings in order to provide secure vascular access. In 2007, the Power PICC was introduced to pediatric populations. In contrast to traditional PICCs, the power injectable PICC withstands higher flow rates and can deliver contrast injections. Although effectiveness studies of power injectable PICCs have been performed in adults, only limited published research is available regarding pediatric populations. PurposeThis study aimed to develop criteria for identifying the ideal pediatric candidate for the power injectable PICC. A secondary aim was to identify contraindications and barriers to power injectable catheter use in pediatric populations. MethodsRetrospective and prospective chart reviews were used to analyze complication rates for 97 power injectable PICCs placed in patients aged 4 months to 17 years. ResultsA low incidence of catheter complications was identified during and post- insertion. Our documented infection rate of 1.30 per 1000 catheter days was similar to the infection rate of 1.27 per 1000 catheter days found in the Abedin & Kapoor (2008) study. DiscussionThe introduction into a pediatric hospital of power injectable PICCs for power injection scans for contrast injection was safe and effective in patients with many disease processes. ConclusionIn properly selected pediatric patients, the power injectable PICC is not associated with an increased risk to thrombosis or infection and can improve patient outcome.