PICC Line Placement
Safe, long-term intravenous access for medications and treatments
What is a PICC Line?
A Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) is a thin, flexible tube inserted into a peripheral vein (usually in the upper arm) and threaded to terminate in a large central vein near the heart. This provides reliable venous access for:
Key Advantages
- •Duration: Weeks to months of use
- •Reduces needle sticks by 90%
- •1-3 lumens for multiple therapies
- •Outpatient placement
Common Uses
- •IV antibiotic therapy (4+ weeks)
- •Chemotherapy administration
- •Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN)
- •Frequent blood sampling
PICC Line Success Rates
95%
Technical success rate for placement
85%
Remain complication-free at 30 days
2-3%
Infection rate with proper care
*Based on clinical studies of ultrasound-guided PICC placements
The PICC Line Placement Procedure
Vein Assessment & Preparation
Using ultrasound, our interventional radiologists evaluate your arm veins (typically basilic or brachial veins) for optimal access. The arm is cleaned with antiseptic, and local anesthetic numbs the insertion site.
Ultrasound-Guided Insertion
Under real-time ultrasound guidance, a small needle accesses the vein. A guidewire is passed, and the PICC catheter (typically 18-20cm long) is threaded through to the superior vena cava.
Position Confirmation
Fluoroscopy confirms proper tip placement at the cavoatrial junction (about 3-4cm above the heart). The external portion is secured with a stabilization device or sutures.
Post-Procedure Care
A transparent dressing is applied. You'll receive detailed instructions on flushing protocols (typically 10mL saline daily) and dressing changes (weekly). The entire procedure takes 30-60 minutes.
Benefits vs. Other Central Lines
Why Choose a PICC?
Lower Infection Risk
2-3% vs 5-10% with traditional central lines
No Chest/Neck Incisions
Arm placement is more comfortable
Cost-Effective
40-60% less than surgically placed lines
Bedside Placement
No operating room required
Potential Complications
Infection (1-3%)
CRBSI rate of 0.5-2.0 per 1000 catheter days
Thrombosis (2-5%)
More common with larger catheters
Mechanical Issues
Occlusion (5-10%), fracture (rare)
Activity Restrictions
Avoid heavy lifting (10lbs) with the arm
Patient Experiences
"After my bone infection diagnosis requiring 6 weeks of IV antibiotics, the PICC line saved me from daily needle sticks. The placement was quick and painless, and I could administer my medications at home."
- Michael R., Osteomyelitis Patient
"As a breast cancer patient, my PICC line made chemotherapy much easier. No more searching for veins each treatment. The nurses taught me how to care for it, and it worked perfectly for my entire regimen."
- Sarah L., Cancer Patient
PICC Line Care & Maintenance
Essential Care Guidelines
- •Dressing Changes: Weekly by trained clinician using sterile technique
- •Flushing Protocol: 10mL saline before/after each use; heparin for some lines
- •Hygiene: Shower with waterproof covering; no swimming/bathing
- •Activity: Avoid heavy lifting; gentle range of motion encouraged
Warning Signs
- •Infection: Fever, chills, redness/swelling at site
- •Thrombosis: Arm swelling, pain, or discoloration
- •Mechanical Issues: Catheter migration, leakage, or breakage
- •Respiratory: Sudden chest pain or shortness of breath
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a PICC line stay in?
PICC lines are designed for medium to long-term use (weeks to months). The current record for a single PICC is 18 months, but most are removed after 6-12 weeks. Duration depends on your treatment needs and whether complications develop.
Can I shower with a PICC line?
Yes, with proper waterproof protection. Use a PICC line shower cover or seal the dressing with waterproof tape. Avoid direct water pressure on the site. Never submerge the PICC (no swimming/bathing).
What's the difference between a PICC and a port?
PICC lines are external catheters placed in the arm, while ports are implanted completely under the skin. PICCs are better for shorter-term use (weeks-months), while ports last years. Ports require needle access through the skin for each use.
How often does a PICC line need flushing?
Unused PICC lines should be flushed with saline at least once daily. For intermittent use, flush before and after each medication administration. Some lines require heparin flushes - your care team will provide specific instructions.
Need a PICC Line?
Schedule a consultation with our vascular access specialists to determine if a PICC line is right for your treatment needs.
PICC Line Fast Facts
Placement Time
30-60 minutes
Veins Used
Basilic (preferred), brachial, cephalic
Catheter Size
3-6Fr (1-2mm diameter)
Dwell Time
Average 6-8 weeks
Removal
Simple 5-minute outpatient procedure
Who Needs a PICC?
- •IV antibiotics ≥2 weeks
- •Chemotherapy patients
- •TPN/nutritional support
- •Frequent blood draws
- •Poor peripheral access
Related Services
PICC Line Emergency?
- •Catheter breakage or leakage
- •Sudden chest pain/breathing difficulty
- •Fever 100.4°F with chills
- •Severe arm swelling/pain