Insertion of a central venous catheter for long-term venous access in a child with severe hemophilia and recurrent intracranial hemorrhage

The Broviac central venous catheter allowed administration of frequent intravenous infusions of factor VIII concentrates by the parents at home. Since instituting therapy 13 months ago, the patient has experienced no further bleeding episodes. Insertion of a central venous catheter should be considered as an alternate route for factor administration in such children with poor venous access but there must be close observation for the possibility of complication by infection and thrombosis.