Background:

In pediatrics, complications of the peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICC) are reported in 30% to 40% of cases, with the most frequent risk factors being the age of the patient and the location of PICC. The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of PICCs and to identify factors related to their withdrawal due to complications.

Methods:

Prospective cohort study. Patients from 2 months to 18 years of age were included and followed-up until PICC was withdrawn. Age, sex, medications administered, PICC location, caliber, the number of lumens, days PICC was on the patient, and the reason for withdrawal was recorded. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results:

Two hundred and twenty-five patients were included. In 33.02%, PICC were withdrawn due to complications. In the bivariate analysis, age and location were factors associated with complications. A Cox proportional hazards model was performed. It was identified that only the caliber thickness (hazard ratio (HR): 0.5, confidence interval (CI)95%: 0.35-0.99) was associated with any complication, and age (HR: 1.02, CI95%: 1-1.04) only to the withdrawal of PICC due to suspected phlebitis.

Conclusions:

PICC withdrawal due to complications was performed in 33% of the patients. Risk factors related to complications were PICC caliber thickness and age.