Introduction:
Pediatric acute limb ischemia (PALI) is a consequence of sudden loss of blood flow to an extremity that can progress to irreversible ischemia if not promptly treated. This may unfortunately result in life-changing consequences which include limb loss, limb length discrepancy, emotional trauma, and or financial stress. Due to the rarity of this condition, and the lack of high-quality evidence, treatment strategies have largely been anecdotal or extrapolated from treatment of the adult patient. The article is a guide to improve overall functional outcomes and reduce morbidity of PALI.
Methods:
The authors retrospectively analysed patient data on the electronic patient record of the hospital between January 2021 and December 2023. The patients with PALI were divided into three broad categories: iatrogenic arterial injury managed with the best medical management, managed surgically; iatrogenic deep vein injury/thrombosis, and trauma.
Results:
A total of 13 patients were referred during the study period. 9 were male. 8 cases were line related, 2 trauma and 3 acute deep vein thrombosis [DVT]. Two patients succumbed prior to intervention. Eight patients were managed with best medical therapy, two surgically and one by endovascular means.
Conclusion:
Since experience worldwide is limited with PALI, we decided to share our experience and a propose comprehensive algorithm for the management of PALI emphasizing a multi-disciplinary team approach that we follow at our hospital. Early and decisive involvement of vascular surgeons, hematologists, intervention radiologists, and pediatric intensive care physicians is necessary to achieve the most favorable outcomes.
