The is used with catheters.
Developed by Ralph L. Huber, a Seattle-born dentist and inventor, the Huber needle was a great innovation in the world of medicine. Huber was considered a pioneer in epidural needle design. An epidural needle is a hollow, curved needle used in medical procedures to insert an epidural catheter. Huber's design was modified by Edward B. Touhy, who trained at the Mayo Clinic, and was a prominent figure in the field of anesthesiology.
Definition
A Huber needle is designed with directional, beveled tip that allows doctors to determine the direction of a catheter which is fed through the needle and exits the needle's tip.
A Huber needle has a curved end and is known as noncoring needle. Huber needles have a hole in the side instead of the tip and have a special point that slices tissue rather than puncturing it, reducing wound leakage. A catheter is fed into the body via the Huber needle.
Use
A Huber needle is used as a means to introduce a catheter directly into the body of an ill patient in order to deliver antibiotics, chemotherapy and nutritional supplements. The Huber needle helps to safely install a port, also known as a central line in the body so the patient, most often seriously or terminally ill individuals, can avoid having to endure numerous needle sticks. These ports may be left inside the patient for several days, making the administration of medicines and nutrition easy and safe.
Safety
Huber needles have a reputation for accidental needle sticks to medical personnel removing them. This happens most often because the nurse or doctor must stabilize the intravenous port with one hand while removing the needle with the other. This risk was most dangerous when working with patients who were diagnosed with infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS or other blood-borne maladies. Due to the nature of the design of the noncoring needle, needle sticks occurred to the stabilizing hand. Modern Huber needles are fitted with plastic safety locks that protect medical personnel from accidental punctures.
Types of Huber Safety Needles
There are several types of Huber safety needles such as the Huber Plus which has plastic wings which may be pinched together to stabilize the port for removal. Other types are fitted with a safety arm or needle trap that helps prevent accidental needle sticks. There are some some brands that are now latex-free for patients and personnel with latex sensitivity.
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