Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), a form of central venous catheter (CVC) inserted into the cephalic or basilic veins, are most commonly used for administration of long-term antibiotics or for total parenteral nutrition. PICCs are associated with fewer complications than traditional CVCs; however, they have been implicated in accidental malpositioning, leading to both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. We present a case of atrial fibrillation possibly triggered by migration of the tip of the PICC deep into the right atrium. Retraction of the tip resulted in resolution of the arrhythmia.
Reference:Golamari, R., Sedhai, Y.R., Ramireddy, K. and Bhattacharya, P. (2019) Atrial fibrillation induced by peripherally inserted central catheters. Proceedings (Baylor University. Medical Center). 33(1), p.83-84. doi: 10.1080/08998280.2019.1668675. eCollection 2020 January.