A Novel Procedure for Treating Parenteral Nutrition-Induced Occlusion of a Single-Lumen Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter

Objective : The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of replacing the connector assembly in resolving occlusion of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) during parenteral nutrition (PN) administration. Methods : This retrospective study reviewed data from 24 patients who received PN via 4Fr single-lumen silicone PICCs at a 2000-bed tertiary general hospital between 2018 and 2023. All patients experienced either partial or complete catheter occlusion following PN infusion. A novel procedure was adopted to replace the connector assembly, and the subsequent outcomes were observed. Results : The success rates of connector replacement were 87.5% and 50.0% on the first and second attempts, respectively, with restored catheter function. Repeated replacement, however, markedly reduced patency (from 87.5% to 0% after the third replacement) and progressively shortened the median functional indwelling time (from 44.5 to 36.5 days), indicating diminished overall durability and therapeutic efficacy. Conclusion : Connector assembly replacement is an effective, immediate, and economical method to resolve PICC occlusions caused by PN. This approach may offer a practical alternative to chemical catheter clearance, particularly for 4Fr single-lumen silicone catheters.