Introduction: At our department, peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs) are considered as the devices of first choice for central venous access. The aim of this study was to clarify the safety and usefulness of PICCs for patients with head and neck disease.
Materials and Methods: Data of a total of 87 patients with head and neck disease who had undergone PICC insertion were analyzed, and the success rate of PICC insertion, the insertion time, and the catheter-related immediate and delayed complications were investigated.
Results: Our investigation revealed a success rate of 100% and a median catheter insertion time of 27.2 minutes. Catheter-related immediate complications included subcutaneous haematoma (2) and internal jugular venous invasion (1), and the catheter-related delayed complications included accidental removal (9), PICC blockage (7), bleeding and subcutaneous haematoma formation (5), catheter-related bloodstream infection (2), PICC damage (2), and venous thrombosis (1).
Conclusion: PICC is a safe and useful device for patients with head and neck disease.
