Catheterization of PICC through a superficial femoral vein for patients with superior vena cava syndrome using ECG positioning and ultrasound-guided technologies

Abstract

Objective: We herein demonstrate the efficacy of PICC placement through a superficial femoral vein in patients with superior vena cava syndrome using ultrasound guidance and electrocardiographic localization. The treatment of PICC disconnection was also discussed.

Methods: The study enrolled 51 patients with superior vena cava syndrome. Ultrasound-guided technology and ECG positioning technology are employed to help these patients in catheterization. The puncture time, the number of punctures, and catheter tip position were recorded. The patient was followed up for at least 2 years. The complications and treatment during follow-up were recorded.

Result: The average puncture time was 32.13 ± 3.91 min. A total of 49 patients were successfully punctured once, while 2 patients failed in the first puncture. The main reason for puncture failure is that the inability of a guide wire to pass through. After the nurse removed the needle and pressed the puncture point until no rebleeding occurred, the puncture above the original puncture point was successful. X-ray examination revealed that the catheter tip was located in the inferior vena cava, above the diaphragm, near the right atrium. The success rate of catheterization was 100%. The visual analog scale (VAS) score was (2.44 ± 0.73) at the time of puncture, which was tolerable during the operation, and the patient did not complain of obvious pain following the operation. One patient developed complications of broken tube half a year after the puncture. Interventional physicians utilized angiography to locate the broken catheter.

Conclusion: It is safe and feasible to place PICC through a superficial femoral vein under ultrasound combined with ECG positioning technology in patients with superior vena cava syndrome.

Keywords: ECG positioning; PICC; superficial femoral vein; superior vena cava syndrome; ultrasonic.