Role of mechanical thrombectomy in pediatric acute ischemic stroke: a case series

Lihe Yao1,2, Qiang Wang1,2, Xiaoshan Gao1

  • 1The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.

Insights

Mechanical thrombectomy is effective for pediatric acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion (LVO). This treatment led to significant recovery and minimal disability in young patients, highlighting its potential in stroke care.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatric Stroke
  • Interventional Neurology

Background:

  • Pediatric ischemic stroke, particularly with large vessel occlusion (LVO), causes significant neurological disability.
  • Current pediatric stroke management lacks standardized guidelines for mechanical thrombectomy.
  • Long-term impairments from pediatric stroke impose a substantial burden on families and healthcare systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy for pediatric acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by LVO.
  • To assess clinical outcomes in children undergoing mechanical thrombectomy for LVO-induced stroke.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of four pediatric cases (ages 6-15) with LVO-induced ischemic stroke.
  • Mechanical thrombectomy was performed at the First Hospital of Lanzhou University.
  • Outcomes were assessed using NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 24 hours and 90 days.

Main Results:

  • All patients achieved post-thrombectomy NIHSS scores ≤2, indicating significant neurological recovery.
  • 100% of patients (4/4) had favorable modified Rankin Scale scores (0-2) at 90-day follow-up.
  • No procedural complications were reported.

Conclusions:

  • Mechanical thrombectomy is an efficient and safe treatment for pediatric AIS with LVO.
  • Findings support emerging evidence for positive outcomes in pediatric mechanical thrombectomy.
  • Larger, multicenter studies are needed to establish standardized protocols for pediatric stroke intervention.
Abstract

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