Long Peripheral Catheters: A Retrospective Review of Major Complications

The risk of infectious and noninfectious complications associated with long peripheral catheters (LPCs) is unknown. In this retrospective study of 539 catheters, we found LPCs were often placed for the indications of difficult access and long-term antibiotics. Rates of deep vein thrombosis (1.7%) and catheter-related infection (0.6%) were low. LPCs may represent a novel and safe option for short-term venous access.