Malposition of peripherally inserted central catheter: Experience from 3,012 patients with cancer

The aim of this study was to observe and analyze the causes of misplacement of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) in patients with cancer. A total of 3,012 patients who underwent insertion of a PICC were reviewed from August 2000 to March 2012. The locations of the tube tips were recorded by chest X-ray examination. Malposition of the PICC was observed in 237 cases (7.87%), with the most frequently occurring site of misplacement being the jugular vein, followed by the axillary vein. By taking different remedies, all the malpositioned PICCs were relocated back to the superior vena cava or subclavian vein. In order to ensure the safe usage of PICCs, strict placement guidelines, skilled and experienced healthcare professionals and the cooperation of the patient is necessary.