Hi All,
I am struggling to find information relating to the length of time therapeutic anticoagualtion should continue for once PICC is removed, with a backround of catheter related deep vein thrombosis.
Most evidence I have found states 3 months from onset, and if line removed at 2 months for example one should not discontinue anticoagulation prior to the 3 month period. However I would imagine that a period of time post removal is warrented??
Also re ultrasounding at 3 months seems to be a ballpark timeframe? Our Haematologist don't believe further investigation is warrented unless there is ongoing symptoms.
Any help with evidence and opinion in either area would be very much appreciated!
Thank you in advance
Gavin
CNC Vascular Access
SCGH WA
The most recent set of published guidelines on this issue is published in CHEST, the 9th edition of Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines. You should be able to download these guidelines free of charge. Not sure which chapter but you can look through the list to see which would apply. Lynn
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, BC, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
126 Main Street, PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861