Validation of PICC Insertion Length Prediction Formula Using Height in Children

Strategic Insights -

A new study published in Pediatrics International has shown that a prediction formula for the length of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) inserted into children can significantly reduce excessive deep tip positioning. Researchers at the National Center for Child Health and Development in Tokyo, Japan, retrospectively compared PICC insertions in a pediatric intensive care unit before and after implementing the formula. The study found that the formula could accurately predict the length of PICCs, reducing the proportion of tips placed in the superior vena cava.

Key Takeaways:

  • The PICC insertion length prediction formula 'length from anterior axillary point to appropriate PICC tip position = height (cm) x 0.1 + 1 (cm)' was tested in a pediatric intensive care unit in Tokyo, Japan.
  • The formula was found to be accurate in predicting the length of PICCs inserted into children, reducing excessive deep tip positioning.
  • The study included 148 PICCs in the No-formula group and 47 PICCs in the Formula group, with the formula group showing a significantly higher proportion of appropriate tip positions (98%) compared to the No-formula group (65%).
  • The primary outcome was the proportion of PICCs with appropriate tip positions visualized on chest radiographs immediately after insertion.
  • The study was conducted by researchers at the National Center for Child Health and Development, including Kentaro Ide, Hajime Okuwaki, Hidehito Ota, Yusuke Tokuda, and Satoshi Nakagawa.
  • The study was published in Pediatrics International, 2025;67(1), and is available online at onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/(ISSN)1442-200X.

Statistics:

  • 148 PICCs were inserted in the No-formula group before implementing the formula.
  • 47 PICCs were inserted in the Formula group after implementing the formula.
  • Appropriate tip position was observed in 98% (46/47) of PICCs in the Formula group.
  • Appropriate tip position was observed in 65% (96/148) of PICCs in the No-formula group.
  • A significant difference was found between the two groups (p<0.001).

Sources:

  • NewsRx. National Center for Child Health and Development Reports Findings in Pediatrics (Validation of the peripherally inserted central venous catheter insertion length prediction formula using height in children). Pediatrics Week. June 14, 2025; p 436.
  • Validation of the peripherally inserted central venous catheter insertion length prediction formula using height in children. Pediatrics International, 2025;67(1).
  • Pediatrics International. Wiley, 111 River St, Hoboken 07030-5774, NJ, USA. (www.wiley.com/; onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/(ISSN)1442-200X)