Risk factors for upper extremity venous thrombosis associated with peripherally inserted central venous catheters.

Purpose: To identify clinically important risk factors associated with upper extremity venous thrombosis following peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICC).

Methods: A retrospective case control study of 400 consecutive patients with and without upper extremity venous thrombosis post-PICC insertion was performed. Patient data included demographics, body mass index (BMI), ethnicity, site of insertion, size and lumen of catheter, internal length, infusate, and co-morbidities, such as diabetes mellitus, congestive heart failure, and renal failure.