Diagnosis prevention and treatment for PICC-related upper extremity deep vein thrombosis in breast cancer patients.

AIM

To study the incidence, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)-related upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in breast cancer patients using a PICC catheter for chemotherapy.

METHODS

The data of the incidence, diagnosis and treatment of PICC-related upper extremity DVT in 187 breast cancer patients using a PICC catheter for chemotherapy, from August 2009 to July 2011 were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

In total 188 PICC were inserted between August 2009 and July 2011 and followed up for a total of 14 399 catheter-days (median placement, 76.6 days; range, 1 to 170 days). Four (2.1%) of 188 PICC were removed as a result of PICC-related upper extremity DVT in 14 to 112 catheter-days, at a rate of 0.28/1000 catheter-days.

CONCLUSION

The use of PICCs in breast cancer patients for chemotherapy is safe and effective. However, some patients may develop catheter-related upper extremity DVT. In order to minimize complications, we should pay attention to its early symptoms and signs, as well as the timely removal of the catheter and appropriate anti-coagulant treatment.