Successful Mechanical Thrombectomy for Basilar Artery Occlusion in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report

Agnete Teivāne1,2, Inga Naļivaiko3, Kristaps Jurjāns2,4,5

  • 1Faculty of Residency, Riga Stradins University, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia.

Biomedicines
|October 28, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Endovascular treatment (EVT) shows promise for pediatric stroke, as demonstrated in a 9-year-old boy with a basilar artery thrombus. Successful EVT led to full neurological recovery, suggesting its potential in children.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatric Stroke
  • Endovascular Therapy

Background:

  • Endovascular treatment (EVT) is established for adult stroke but controversial in pediatric cases.
  • No current guidelines exist for EVT in children, necessitating case studies.
  • Understanding EVT's risks and benefits in pediatric patients is crucial.

Observation:

  • A 9-year-old male presented with acute cerebellar ischemia and a basilar artery thrombus.
  • Symptoms included sudden left-sided weakness following a gastroenteritis diagnosis.
  • The patient received urgent EVT 8.5 hours after symptom onset.

Findings:

  • Successful revascularization was achieved through urgent EVT.
  • The patient experienced improved neurological status post-treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Complete neurological recovery was observed at six months, despite an unknown stroke etiology.

Implications:

  • This case suggests EVT may be a viable option for pediatric basilar artery thrombosis.
  • Further case reports and series are needed to establish EVT protocols for pediatric stroke.
  • Pediatric patients demonstrate significant resilience and potential for recovery with timely intervention.