Tiny clots, big choices: intervening on neonatal aortic thrombosis-a novel framework for clinical decision-making

Neonatal aortic thrombosis, though rare, is a critical condition with high morbidity and mortality. Spontaneous thrombosis is uncommon, complicating diagnosis due to its similarity to aortic coarctation. Standard treatments include heparinisation and thrombolysis, but severe cases may require interventional or surgical thrombectomy.

This case series examines interventional therapy in neonates with spontaneous aortic thrombosis, focusing on reduced systolic function or organ failure, and evaluates off-label thrombectomy devices.

Three neonates with spontaneous abdominal aortic thrombosis treated at Hannover Medical School between 2017 and 2023 were reviewed. Clinical presentation, diagnostics, treatments, and outcomes were analysed. Treatment involved therapeutic anticoagulation, systemic thrombolysis and interventional thrombectomy using off-label devices. A literature review on interventional thrombectomy in neonates was conducted.

The first neonate, with severe multi-organ failure, died after thrombectomy. The second recovered fully with systemic thrombolysis. The third, critically ill, recovered following successful thrombectomy and thrombolysis. Off-label use of the Amplatzer Vascular Plug II proved more effective than the Amplatzer Piccolo PDA Occluder for managing organised thrombus. A literature review identified seven cases of neonatal aortic thrombectomy using various devices, highlighting interventional thrombectomy as a promising treatment for neonates with cardiac decompensation or imminent organ failure.

We propose a diagnostic approach for newborns with diminished or absent femoral pulses without structural heart or vascular disease. Interventional thrombectomy is a viable option for neonates with spontaneous aortic thrombosis in life-threatening situations involving decreased systolic function or organ failure. Further studies are needed to evaluate safety and long-term outcomes of catheter-based interventions.