Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 29, 2026

A Thrombotic Stroke Model Based On Transient Cerebral Hypoxia-ischemia
06:01

A Thrombotic Stroke Model Based On Transient Cerebral Hypoxia-ischemia

Published on: August 18, 2015

Arterial thromboembolism in the pediatric population

Victoria Price1, M Patricia Massicotte

  • 1Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.

Seminars in Thrombosis and Hemostasis
|January 14, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric arterial thromboembolism, often linked to catheterization, requires unique approaches due to differing pathophysiology in children. Further research is crucial for evidence-based management of this rare complication.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Pediatric Critical Care Medicine
  • Pediatric Hematology

Background:

  • Arterial thromboembolism is a rare but serious complication in children.
  • Advances in pediatric tertiary care have increased survival rates for critical illnesses, leading to a rise in such events.
  • Historically, pediatric cases were managed using adult protocols, which is now recognized as inadequate.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current literature on pediatric arterial thromboembolism.
  • To support an evidence-based approach for diagnosis and treatment.
  • To highlight the need for further research and clinical trials.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of published data on pediatric arterial thromboembolism.
  • Analysis of the frequency and causes of the complication.
  • Comparison of pediatric and adult thrombosis pathophysiology.

Main Results:

  • Arterial catheterization is the most common cause of arterial thromboembolism in children.
  • Non-catheter-related events are rare but increasing.
  • Pathophysiology of thrombosis in children varies by age and differs from adults.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric arterial thromboembolism necessitates a unique diagnostic and therapeutic strategy.
  • Current management should be evidence-based, drawing from available data.
  • There is an urgent need for randomized controlled trials in this field.

Related Concept Videos

Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care01:29

Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

Diagnosing Pulmonary EmbolismDiagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE) involves clinical assessment and advanced imaging tests. The preferred diagnostic tool is the spiral (helical) CT scan or CT angiography (CTA), which uses intravenous contrast media to visualize the pulmonary vasculature and identify emboli.A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan is an alternative for patients unable to receive contrast media. This scan includes both perfusion and ventilation scanning. Perfusion scanning involves...
Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction01:19

Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction

A blood clot, or thrombus, is a semi-solid mass composed of fibrin, platelets, and red blood cells. When it forms within a vessel, it can obstruct blood flow, known as thrombosis. If part of the clot detaches, it becomes an embolus that can travel and block distant vessels. When this occurs in the pulmonary arteries, it causes a condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE).Origin and ImpactMost often, the embolus originates from a thrombus in the deep veins of the lower limbs, a condition called...
Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction01:29

Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction

Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a thrombus, fat or air embolus, amniotic fluid, or tumor tissue blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. These blockages originate in the venous system or the right side of the heart.EtiologyPE primarily arises from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other hypercoagulable states, such as inherited thrombophilias. Additional etiological factors include venous stasis, commonly seen in obesity, and endothelial injury from surgery and trauma. Less common causes include...
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care01:29

Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care

Venous thrombosis requires effective prevention and treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes and reduce potential complications.Prevention StrategiesHealthcare providers must prioritize preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) for all adult patients upon admission. Interventions depend on bleeding and thrombosis risk, medical history, current medications, diagnoses, planned procedures, and patient preferences. Patients on bed rest should change positions every two hours and, if not...
Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management01:27

Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management

A pulmonary embolism occurs when a thrombus, amniotic fluid, tumor tissue, fat, or air embolus blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. Effective nursing management and patient education are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing recurrence.Nursing management starts with obtaining a comprehensive patient history, particularly noting any history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Assess for clinical manifestations, including dyspnea, chest pain, crackles, heart murmurs, and signs of right-sided...
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management01:30

Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management

Nursing management begins with a thorough assessment of the patient's health history. Key factors include trauma to veins, peripherally inserted central catheters, varicose veins, recent pregnancy or childbirth, surgery, bacteremia, prolonged bed rest, atrial fibrillation, COPD, heart failure, cancer, coagulation disorders, myocardial infarction, spinal cord injury, stroke, prolonged travel, recent bone fractures, and dehydration. Review medication intake, particularly oral contraceptives,...