Analysis of complication rates and reasons for nonelective removal of PICCs in neonatal intensive care unit preterm infants.

The aim of this study was to analyze the complication rates of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and to study the risk factors associated with the nonelective removal of PICCs. One hundred four premature infants were enrolled. Ninety-one PICCs were removed electively. The complications rate was 31.73%, most of which was phlebitis. All patients were further divided into 2 groups: elective removal (ER) and nonelective removal (non-ER). This study reinforces that phlebitis is an important complication, and mechanical complications are the most common reason for the removal of catheters.