Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026
11:27
A Modified Sonographic Algorithm for Image Acquisition in Life-Threatening Emergencies in the Critically Ill Newborn
Published on: April 7, 2023
Brachial artery thrombosis in infants: an algorithm for limb salvage
Christopher J Coombs1, Phillip W Richardson, Guy J Dowling
1Department of Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia. chris@southernplasticsurgery.com.au
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|April 28, 2006
Summary
Iatrogenic arterial occlusion in infants, often from vascular access, can lead to limb loss. A new management algorithm successfully treated 11 infants, preventing limb loss and guiding therapy with early recognition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric surgery
- Vascular surgery
- Neonatology
Background:
- Iatrogenic arterial occlusion in infants, typically from arterial vascular access, can cause severe complications like gangrene and limb loss.
- Long-term growth disturbances may occur even if limb loss is avoided.
- Limited data exists for managing arterial occlusion in premature or sick infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an algorithm for managing iatrogenic arterial occlusion in infants.
- To share experiences from the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 11 infant cases (1995-2003) with arterial vascular access-associated thrombosis.
- Development and application of a management algorithm.
Main Results:
- The algorithm successfully treated 11 limbs in 11 patients, preventing limb loss.
- Five patients required surgical intervention.
Conclusions:
- A multidisciplinary approach involving plastic surgeons and hematologists is recommended.
- A consensus algorithm for heparin, thrombolysis, and surgical interventions provides a useful therapeutic framework.
- Early recognition of the at-risk limb is crucial for successful outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:12Arteries of the Upper Limbs
The subclavian artery transitions into the axillary artery as it exits the chest and enters the axillary region. This artery is critical for supplying blood to the shoulder area, including the head of the humerus, through the humeral circumflex arteries. As the vessel continues into the upper arm or brachium, it becomes the brachial artery. This artery plays a key role in vascularizing the brachial region and bifurcates at the elbow into several branches. These branches include the deep...
01:27Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is characterized by narrowed arteries that diminish blood flow to the extremities. Effective management of PAD requires an interprofessional approach involving various healthcare professionals. The critical aspects of interprofessional care for PAD patients focus on risk factor modification, drug therapy, exercise therapy, nutrition therapy, critical limb ischemia care, and interventional radiology and surgical procedures.The primary treatment goal for PAD...