Application of magnetic navigation for pediatric PICC placement: A retrospective study.

BACKGROUND

Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICC) are widely used for long-term intravenous therapy in pediatric patients and are effective in preventing catheter displacement.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the effect of magnetic navigation technology compared with ultrasound imaging and manual control of the catheter path.

METHODS

The control group underwent PICC placement using the Seldinger technique under ultrasound guidance (n = 86), while the magnetic navigation group received magnet-assisted PICC placement (n = 80). Both groups used chest X-ray (CXR) after catheter placement to confirm the tip position. Insertion time, first-attempt success rate, complication rate, post-procedural pain, post-procedural anxiety, and family satisfaction were compared.

RESULTS

Compared to the control group, magnetic navigation significantly reduced catheter insertion time (28.2 ± 3.67 min vs. 34.85 ± 2.94 min, P < 0.001), improved first-attempt success rate (91.25% vs. 41.86%, P < 0.001), and lowered the complication rate (21.25% vs. 66.28%, P < 0.001). In addition, magnetic navigation alleviated post-procedural pain and anxiety (P < 0.01), and improved family satisfaction (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Compared to traditional ultrasound-guided methods, magnetic navigation offers superior efficiency in pediatric PICC placement, highlighting its promising potential for clinical application and broader implementation.