The incidence of asymptomatic thrombosis related to peripherally inserted central catheter in adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis People’s

AIM: To examine the incidence and risk factors for asymptomatic peripherally inserted central catheter-related thrombosis (PICC-RT). DESIGN: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis following the PRISMA guidelines. METHODS: The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020186732). A systematic search of EMBASE, CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane was performed from inception to 4 June 2020. Meta-analysis was performed to determine the pooled incidence of asymptomatic PICC-RT. RESULTS: Ten studies comprising 1591 participants with 1592 PICCs were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled incidence of asymptomatic PICC-RT in adults was 22% (95% CI, 0.17-0.29). The pooled incidence of PICC-RT in cancer patients was 19% (95% CI, 0.13-0.26). Asymptomatic PICC-RT mainly occurred in superficial veins. Most asymptomatic thrombosis occurred 3-12 days after the PICC insertion. A higher Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score (ECOG), slower blood flow velocity and left basilic vein were independent risk factors of asymptomatic thrombosis.