Method Duration of Use Advantages Disadvantages Peripheral intravenous (IV) access Short term Ease of insertion Low cost Minimal complications Easily occluded Potential for local tissue injury Use limited to certain antibiotics or medications Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) Short-to- intermediate term Ease of insertion (bedside) Can be used with variety of medications Relatively safe and inexpensive Potential for occlusion Can be difficult to position in central vein Percutaneous polyethylene catheter Long term Relatively safe and inexpensive Percutaneous insertion Safe with most medications Risk of infection May require insertion in operating room (may require anesthesia) Silicone central venous catheter (eg, Hickman, Broviac) Long term Less thrombogenic Decreased infection rate Safe with most medications Increased cost Requires surgical insertion Implantable vascular- access device (ports) Long or permanent Low visibility, improved body image Lowest rate of infection Increased cost Requires surgical insertion Intraosseous Emergency access Rapidly and easily inserted Low complication rate Safe with resuscitation medications Not for long-term use Potential for osteomyelitis Venous cutdown Emergency access; possibly long term Direct exposure to vein Increased rate of dislodgement and infection Requires incision