[Evaluation of tip location reliability of intraprocedural ECG vs. chest Xrays in PICC placement].

. Evaluation of tip location reliability of intraprocedural ECG vs. chest Xrays in PICC placement.

INTRODUCTION: Among the methods to assess the correct positioning of the tip of central venous catheters, the ECG method is safe and reliable.

AIM: To compare the reliability of tip location by intraprocedural ECG and post-procedural radiological examination as implemented in routine care in a tertiary hospital PICC Team.

METHODS: 119 PICCs positioned by the Monza hospital PICC Team were examined positioned by either ECG technique or post procedural x-rays technique. The tip location was assessed in retrospect, through occasional chest ray reports. We assessed the reliability of the ECG and X rays techniques.

RESULTS: In the ECG group (75 catheters), 71 (95.7%) were correctly located vs 33/44 (75%) in the x-rays group.

CONCLUSIONS: Tip location by ECG technique implemented by the PICC team is feasible and safe. The cost/benefit ratio suggests its adoption as main tip location technique.