[The PICC line, a new approach for venous access]. / Le PICC line, une nouvelle stratégie dans l'accès veineux.

ABSTRACT

Peripheral Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) line is a peripherally inserted central catheter. This implantable medical device is placed into a peripheral vein of the arm in order to obtain an intravenous central access. This device can find its use in various applications like intravenous delivery of parenteral nutrition, anticancer agents and antibiotics, as well as for blood sampling. PICC line is not widely used in medical practice because it remains largely unknown. The aim of this review is thus to introduce PICC line to the medical and scientific community. First, we will approach its insertion and maintenance of the dressing. We will then detail the benefits and drawbacks associated with its use, and finally discuss its position with regards to the other central venous access available.