Abstract:
Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) may be used to administer contrast injection during CT (computed tomography) scans to improve diagnostic accuracy. This is usually done with the use of a power injector. Research has shown that misplacement of catheters following contrast injection can occur. The aim of this review was to analyse appropriately positioned pre-scan PICCs that malposition following injection of contrast media during a CT scan, evaluate whether tip location or right or left insertion plays a part in the displacement of PICCs after CT, and to ensure those involved are aware of the risks and the safety checks required following such procedures. A quantitative method was used, gathering information from the team’s insertion database to review 2045 records of contrast-injectable PICCs between 1 January 2015 and 30 April 2020. Analysis of the data indicated that 1% of appropriately sited PICCs malposition following contrast CT injection and that the catheter is able to self-correct back to its original position at an average interval of 24-72 hours without any other intervention. Further research is needed to explore other factors that could influence the rate of self-correction and complications of prolonged catheter malposition.
Reference:
Wortley V, Almerol LA. Misplacement of piccs following power-injected CT contrast media. Br J Nurs. 2020 Oct 22;29(19):S4-S10. doi: 10.12968/bjon.2020.29.19.S4. PMID: 33104421.