From the Research
PICC Line Replacement Duration
The maximum duration a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) line should remain in place before being replaced is not strictly defined, but several studies provide insights into the risks associated with longer indwelling times.
- A study published in 2022 1 found that the risk of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) does not appear to increase with longer PICC indwelling time, suggesting that routine replacement of PICCs may not be necessary to prevent CLABSI.
- Another study from 2019 2 reported that PICC CLABSIs occurred at a mean of 32 days after placement, but did not provide a specific recommendation for replacement duration.
- A 2020 study 3 reported a mean PICC indwelling time of 24 days, with a range of 1-434 days, but did not address the optimal replacement duration.
Risk Factors for Infection
Several studies have identified risk factors for infection associated with PICC lines, including:
- Chemotherapy 2
- Placement of a tunneled catheter 2
- Leukemia 2
- AIDS 2
- Aplastic anaemia (AA) 1
- Autologous stem cell transplantation (SCT) 1
Comparison with Other Catheters
A 2022 study 4 compared the incidence of infectious and thromboembolic complications between PICCs and midline catheters, finding no significant differences in the rates of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) or sepsis between the two types of catheters.
Exchange Method Risks
A 2011 study 5 found that exchanging a PICC line using the old PICC as a guide wire is associated with an increased risk of bloodstream infection compared to new-site insertion.