Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)

PICC insertion. These catheters are used for patients who need a prolonged course of IV antibiotics and/or TPN. Unlike portacaths, they cannot be left in situ indefinitely, but are useful for up to six weeks of therapy. The catheter is inserted through an upper limb vein, usually the basilic or brachial, which will have been punctured with a needle using ultrasound guidance. The catheter is cut to an appropriate size, so that its tip is located in the distal SVC or right atrium (arrow). This patient has cystic fibrosis and has been admitted with an infective exacerbation.