Study of Complication Rates Associated With PICC for Left vs Right

Assessment of Impact of Choice of Arm for Access on Rate of Complications in Peripherally Inserted Central Venous Catheters

Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) are catheters that are placed mainly in the arms, but which pass in the veins to beside the heart. They are associated with occasional complications due to infection or blockage of the vein that they are in. The investigators want to investigate whether PICCs in the right arm have lower complications than those in the left. This difference in complication rates has been noticed in most other forms of central venous access.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Referral for in-patient PICC placement at centre carrying out study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Out of hospital referrals for PICC placement; previous PICC placement; previous long term central catheter/pacemaker; unable to give valid consent; presence of pre-existing medical preventing randomisation.