Injectable drugs are very irritable for body. If given by regular iv cannula in hand,it can induce serious reaction/swelling/blockage in veins. For patients who require long term(for weeks to months) injectable medications, you can not take prick for fresh IV cannula every time. Patient needs a permanent long term access, & these lines can serve the purpose.
There are certain advantages of Hickman / PICC lines:
Single time placement, used for all the cycles of TPN / BMT / chemotherapy.
Minimal risk of damage to veins of hand.
Less chances of infection
Less chances of blockage
Comfortable neck movements
Covered under skin (not visible outside to others)
Can be used to withdraw blood sample/give other IV fluids & blood.