Deep vein thrombosis in the disabled pediatric population

R T Radecki1, D Gaebler-Spira

  • 1Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, IL.

Insights

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) affects 2.2% of disabled children in rehabilitation centers. Spinal cord injuries are the most common risk factor, particularly in adolescents aged 15-18.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition rarely studied in disabled children.
  • Understanding DVT incidence in pediatric rehabilitation is crucial for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of DVT in pediatric patients under 18 years old admitted to a rehabilitation center.
  • To identify specific risk factors and patient groups within this population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective chart review of 532 children admitted to a rehabilitation center between 1983 and 1987.
  • Analysis of DVT incidence and associated diagnoses.

Main Results:

  • Overall DVT incidence was 2.2% in the studied pediatric population.
  • Spinal cord injuries (SCI) represented the largest group with DVT, with 10% incidence in SCI patients aged 15-18.
  • Single cases of DVT were noted in children with meningoencephalitis, arteriovenous malformation, closed head injuries, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Conclusions:

  • DVT is an important consideration in disabled pediatric populations within rehabilitation settings.
  • Adolescents with spinal cord injuries are at a significantly higher risk for DVT.
  • Further research into DVT treatment risks and recommendations is warranted.

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