"Peripherally inserted central catheters: our experience from a cancer research centre".

Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is a modern drug delivery system utilised in oncology practice. The purpose of this study was to determine the complications associated with PICCs within a one year study period. PICCs inserted in patients registered at Dharamshila Cancer Hospital and research centre from 1st July 2012 to 30th June 2013 were studied. Data was retrieved from the procedure room records, medical records department, department of radiology and department of microbiology. Data was collected by oncology residents and procedure team. A total of 246 PICCs were inserted during the one year period. Complete data was not available in 23 patients. 223 results were included in the final analysis. USG guidance was required in 14 patients (6.3%). Optimal PICC duration was achieved in 151 patients (67.7%). 28 patient developed culture positive infective complications (12.5%). 44 patients developed mechanical complications (19.7%). Our study shows a relatively higher rate of infective complications. PICC is an acceptable means of drug delivery system.