From Dimitra Ibrahim: I'm 23y/o from Australia who has very recently had my spleen removed (I was told it was 8-9 times larger than a normal spleen). My blood transfusion requirement is expected to stretch from 3 units every 3 weeks, to every 4 weeks. I did have some trouble using my Desferal regularly mainly because of the sore pump sites and the awkwardness of the butterfly needles. I was recently told about the Thalaset which is a 90 degree needle and have begun using 3g of Desferal at least 5-6 nights per week. This needle is far more comfortable than the butterfly needle. Instead of inserting the needle and having to bend it down to tape it, this needle goes straight in and has an adhesive base which sticks to your skin. To anyone having trouble with using butterfly needles I strongly recommend you try these Thalasets, you will not want to go back to butterfly needles. I feel I have much more freedom to wear the pump at night or even during the day! It sits flat against your skin (unlike the butterfly which sticks up slightly from being bent) so you can hide it easily and it does not get caught on clothing. I also find it leaves less swelling than after use of a butterfly needle. At this site I have read about of many different variations on using Desferal, a lot of which I have not heard before, but I have not heard anyone mention the use of the Thalaset. If anyone has used it or has any questions for me, I would be interested in hearing from you, so please feel free to email me. dimitra@mbox.com.au