Clinical impact of the Sherlock 3CG® Tip Confirmation System for peripherally inserted central catheters

Abstract

Objective This study was performed to evaluate the technical success rate and catheter tip malposition rate of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placement using the Sherlock 3CG® Tip Confirmation System (TCS). Methods In total, 114 patients who underwent PICC insertion via the Sherlock 3CG® TCS from October 2017 to February 2018 were retrospectively evaluated. The primary endpoints were the technical success rate, malposition rate, and mean procedure time. The secondary endpoints were the sex-related difference in the malposition rate, radiologist’s experience level, and side of insertion. Technical success was defined as procedure completion using only the Sherlock 3CG® TCS without a guidewire or fluoroscopy guidance. In accordance with the North American guidelines, an adequate position was defined as the lower third of the superior vena cava and the cavoatrial junction. Results The technical success rate was 97% (111/114). The malposition rate was 16% (18/111), and four catheters were repositioned. There were no significant differences in the malposition rate between the sexes, radiologist’s level of experience, or side of insertion. Conclusions PICC placement using the Sherlock 3CG® TCS yielded a high technical success rate and low catheter tip malposition rate regardless of the radiologist’s level of experience or side of insertion.