Pediatric emergency care
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Immediate recognition of salt toxicity and aggressive resuscitative measures are critical in the treatment of this lethal poisoning. Despite heroic measures, pediatric deaths due to salt toxicity still occur from irreversible neurological damage. The objective of this article is to review the relevant literature and offer a therapeutic algorithm for the management of pediatric patients presenting with salt toxicity. ⋯ The approach to treatment differs between salt toxicity and hypernatremia, focusing on rapid correction of serum osmolality rather than gradual normalization of serum sodium concentrations. Consultation of nephrology and child protection services are strongly recommended in the comprehensive treatment approach.
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Pediatric emergency care · Nov 2018
Review Case ReportsCraniectomy and Traumatic Brain Injury in Children on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support: Case Report and Review of the Literature.
Severe trauma may cause refractory life-threatening respiratory failure requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Concurrent traumatic brain injury, however, complicates the use of ECMO because of the major risk of intracranial bleeding with systemic anticoagulation. Craniotomy and/or craniectomy for hematoma evacuation during ECMO are extremely high-risk procedures secondary to ongoing anticoagulation, and there are only a few such case reports in the literature. ⋯ We also review the relevant literature regarding the use of ECMO in patients with polytrauma and the occurrence of craniectomy on extracorporeal support, with a focus on pediatric publications. Patients with polytrauma with brain injury can be supported on ECMO, but extreme precaution must be taken regarding anticoagulation. The intracranial complications of ECMO in this population are not infrequent, but our case report and review of the literature suggest that neurosurgical intervention should be considered in life-threatening conditions when no other alternatives are available.
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Pediatric stroke is relatively rare, with approximately 1000 childhood strokes in the United States per year. However, the occurrence of stroke in children leads to significant morbidity and mortality, warranting the development proven screening tools, protocols, and treatment options. Because significant delays in seeking medical attention can occur, time to recognition of pediatric stroke in the emergency department is uniquely challenging and critical. ⋯ Key elements of the pediatric stroke protocol should include recognition tools, stroke alert mechanism, stroke order sets, timely imaging, laboratory evaluation, and treatment options. Substantial advancements have been made in the field of pediatric stroke protocols mainly due to formation of international consortiums and clinical trial. Despite significant progress, treatment options remain controversial.