Acute Management of High-Risk and Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism in Children

Severe forms of pulmonary embolism (PE) in children are rare but cause significant morbidity and mortality. In this article, we review the pathophysiology of severe (high- and intermediate-risk) PE and suggest novel pediatric-specific risk stratifications and an acute treatment algorithm to expedite emergent decision making. We define pediatric high-risk PE as causing cardiopulmonary arrest, sustained hypotension or normotension with signs or symptoms of shock. Rapid primary reperfusion should be pursued with either surgical embolectomy or systemic thrombolysis in conjunction with a heparin infusion and supportive care as appropriate. We define pediatric intermediate-risk PE as those without systemic hypotension nor compensated shock but with evidence of right ventricular strain by imaging and/or myocardial necrosis by elevated cardiac troponin levels. The decision to pursue primary reperfusion in this group is complex and should be reserved for patients with more severe disease; anticoagulation alone may also be appropriate in some cases. If primary reperfusion is pursued, catheter-based therapies may be beneficial. In summary, acute management of severe PE in children may include systemic thrombolysis, surgical embolectomy, catheter-based therapies or anticoagulation alone, and may depend on patient and institutional factors. Pediatric emergency and intensive care physicians should be familiar with the risks and benefits of each therapy in order to expedite care. PE Response Teams may also have added benefit in streamlining care during these critical events.