Factor must be infused into a vein to treat hemophilia. For some patients, accessing a vein may not be a problem. For other patients who infuse factor on a regular basis, accessing a vein can pose challenges. To reduce these challenges, many patients with hemophilia use an implanted reservoir when frequent infusion is needed.

Doctors insert the reservoir during minor surgery in which the patient is heavily sedated and the skin is numbed. The reservoir is placed just below the collar bone under the skin. A tube is then attached to the reservoir and then sewn into the subclavian vein. The reservoir remains in place permanently unless a problem occurs.

The access needle is called a Huber needle. The needle is inserted through the skin and into the reservoir. The L-shape allows part of the needle to stay in the reservoir and part of the needle to lay flat against the skin. Factor is injected through the Huber needle into the reservoir. Patients who use an implanted reservoir report very few problems. Infection is a concern and occurs in 10-15%.

Other common problems are growth and access. Some children need a larger reservoir implanted when they grow. Most patients need someone to change the Huber needle due to the location of the reservoir. Patients are usually not able to see the reservoir site although some patients can change the needle by looking in a mirror.

First published February 1, 2000
Last updated December 2, 2002
Copyright © 2000 Accordant Health Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Or Find More On:

Back to top of page