Power-injectable peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) offer several key functions in intensive care and other clinical settings:
High Flow Rates
Power-injectable PICCs can deliver infusions at very high rates, up to 300 ml/minute when coupled with an appropriate infusion pump. This allows for:
- Rapid fluid resuscitation
- Fast administration of medications
- High-velocity infusion of contrast media for imaging studies
Versatility
These catheters serve as multipurpose central lines, capable of:
- Any type of infusion, including high-flow infusions
- Hemodynamic monitoring
- Central venous pressure measurement
- High-pressure injection of contrast media for radiological procedures
Safety Features
Power-injectable PICCs have several safety advantages:
- They are clearly labeled and color-coded (often purple) to differentiate them from standard PICCs not rated for power injection
- Maximum injection rates are indicated on the catheter
- They are designed to withstand the high pressures (up to 300 psi) used in power injectors, reducing the risk of catheter rupture
Insertion Benefits
- High successful insertion rate reported in some studies, even in patients with coagulation disorders
- Low risk of mechanical and hemorrhagic complications during insertion
Design Features
- Reverse-taper design at the proximal end, potentially reducing bleeding at the insertion site and improving stability
- Designed to resist kinking
Extended Use
Power-injectable PICCs are suitable for both short-term and long-term use, providing flexibility in patient care. In summary, power-injectable PICCs combine the benefits of standard PICCs with the ability to handle high-pressure injections, making them a versatile and safe option for many clinical scenarios, particularly in intensive care settings.
Health Line’s single, dual and triple lumen power PICC line kits are designed for nurses, doctors, and interventional radiologists of all experience levels. The SYNERGY CT PICC™ combines the ease and efficiency of PICC access with power injectability in multiple PICC line kit configurations to provide healthcare practitioners with an array of intravenous therapy options.
Explore our range of PICC Lines, customized to meet your unique requirements with a variety of configurations. Designed to satisfy the needs of both medical professionals and patients, our vascular access devices stand out as the best option. Please contact us today for more information and a custom quotation.
References:
Pittiruti, M.et al., (2012, February 4) Clinical experience with power-injectable PICCs in intensive care patients. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3396261/
Castiello, L. (2023, February 14) What are PICC lines and why do doctors use them. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/picc-line
Elli, S. (2022, September 09) How to insert a PICC: practical tips for the intensive care physician. About Science. https://journals.aboutscience.eu/index.php/aboutopen/article/view/2360/2586