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Published on: September 22, 2020
Acute ischemia of the lower extremity in the pediatric population: a protocol for management
Peter J Taub1, James P O'Connell, Aalok Singh
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, Valhalla, NY, USA. peter@pjtaub.com
Insights
Femoral artery catheterization in children can lead to lower extremity ischemia. This study presents cases and a management protocol for this rare but serious complication in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric vascular surgery
- Interventional cardiology
- Neonatal intensive care
Background:
- Vascular catheterization through the femoral artery is common in infants and children.
- This approach is preferred for its ease of access and lower risk of severe complications compared to central lines.
- Acute lower extremity ischemia is an infrequent but serious complication.
Observation:
- The authors observed cases of acute distal lower extremity ischemia following femoral artery catheterization in pediatric patients.
- Existing treatment options are varied, lacking a standardized approach.
- This highlights a gap in established management protocols for this specific condition.
Findings:
- The study details several cases of pediatric patients experiencing lower extremity ischemia post-femoral catheterization.
- A novel management protocol is proposed based on these clinical experiences.
- The protocol aims to provide a structured approach to diagnosis and treatment.
Implications:
- The proposed protocol may improve outcomes for pediatric patients experiencing this complication.
- Standardizing management can reduce variability in care and potentially prevent limb loss.
- Further research and validation of the protocol are warranted for widespread adoption.
Abstract:
Each year, a large number of infants and children undergo vascular catheterization via access in a lower extremity. The femoral system is relatively easy to cannulate, and this approach avoids use of more central access approaches that may present more serious complications. Infrequently, however, pediatric patients develop acute ischemia of the ipsilateral lower extremity. Several surgical and nonsurgical treatment options exist for the management of such problems. However, no adequate protocol exists for the management of acute lower extremity ischemia in the pediatric population. The authors present several cases of distal lower extremity ischemia as a result of femoral artery catheterization and offer a protocol for management of similar cases.
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