Single-Center Experience in Treating Peripheral Vascular Injuries in Vietnamese Children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Vascular Surgery
• Trauma Management

Background:

• Pediatric extremity vascular trauma presents unique challenges compared to adult cases.
• Management strategies and outcomes in this population require specific consideration for growth and development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report hospital-based experience in managing pediatric extremity vascular trauma.
• To analyze management strategies and patient outcomes at a major trauma center.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of patients under 18 with extremity vascular injuries undergoing surgery.
• Data collected from May 2021 to February 2023.

Main Results:

• 46 children analyzed: 34.8% upper extremity, 65.2% lower extremity injuries.
• Blunt trauma (82.6%) was the predominant mechanism; 73.9% had associated extremity injuries, including 14 open fractures.
• Vascular repair methods included direct revascularization (34.8%), Fogarty catheter dilatation (28.3%), and great saphenous vein repair (19.5%). One patient underwent secondary amputation; mortality was 2.7%.

Conclusions:

• Blunt trauma is a significant challenge in pediatric vascular injuries.
• Vascular surgeons must account for pediatric growth potential in treatment planning.
• Timely diagnosis and treatment by experienced surgeons at specialized centers are crucial for minimizing adverse outcomes.