Early Detection of PICC-related Deep Vein Thrombosis by US Surveillance: an Effective Approach for Secondary Prevention?

Background: PICC-related thrombosis have shown a slightly different pattern of frequency and risk factors, compared with traditional CVC; because of the increasing diffusion of PICCs, they are becoming a somehow independent pathology, still under investigation; no pharmacological prevention has proved to be effective. Aim of this study is to estimate the cumulative incidence of thrombosis in a cohort of patients carrying a PICC-line CVC, monitored to allow an early detection and prevention of complications related to the presence of asymptomatic deep venous thrombosis, and to explore the role of several potential risk factors. Methods: in a prospective observational cohort we will enroll 150 consecutive patients having a PICC inserted by our team; clinical characteristics, comorbidities and main features of catheter positioning procedure will be registered; patients will be followed with clinical and echographic scheduled controls, weekly for the first month, then monthly; patients with PRDVT will be treated with LMWH and recontrolled weekly until removal of catheter