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Venous Thromboembolism in Children: Preliminary Results of a Survey of POSNA Members.

J Pediatr Orthop. 2013 Aug 8;

Authors: Sabharwal S, Passannante MR

Abstract
BACKGROUND:: The term venous thromboembolism (VTE) includes deep venous thrombosis of the extremity and pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal clinical entity. Although the prevalence of VTE may be lower in children compared with adults, recent reports suggest a possible rise in this diagnosis among pediatric patients, especially in association with certain risk factors. We assessed the clinical experience and practice of members of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA) related to VTE among their pediatric patients.
METHODS:: A 36-question online survey was sent to all 636 active POSNA members. The proportion of surgeons who had encountered at least 1 child with VTE and the respondents' practice of using thromboprophylaxis in children (<18 y old) was assessed. The relationship of responders' experience with VTE among pediatric patients with various practice characteristics was evaluated.
RESULTS:: The response rate was 56% (354/636). More than half (55%) [95% confidence interval (CI), 50%-60%] of the respondents could recall at least 1 (median, 2 cases/member) pediatric patient with deep venous thrombosis and 29% (95% CI, 24%-34%) could recall ≥1 child with pulmonary embolism. Approximately one quarter (23%) (95% CI, 18%-27%)