ECG Versus Ultrasound-guided Positioning of the Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) Tip

ECG Versus Ultrasound-guided Positioning of the Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) Tip

In the prevention of thrombosis related to catheter placement it is important to have a right position of the catheter tip. Therefor we want to assess which technique is the most successful in the placing of a PICC.

This is a randomised prospective single blinded study. All adult patients with an indication for PICC placement can be included. Patients will be randomised into two groups, one with ECG-guided placement followed by ultrasound control and the other with only ultrasound guided placement. After placement, in both groups, control radiography of the chest will be done which will be interpreted by an independent radiologist. For the ECG-guided group the ultrasound control of the tip position will be done by an independent, blind operator, after placement. For the only ultrasound guided placement group, the ultrasound will be done by a second operator during placement.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All adults with indication for PICC

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age <18y
• Pregnant women