Stroke in children is rare, and symptoms often differ from those in adults. A new study, which included the contribution of Greek doctor Panagiotis Papagiotou, was recently published in The Lancet Childhood and Adolescent Health. The study demonstrated that a procedure called thrombectomy can offer children substantial chances of recovery and improved quality of life.
What is Thrombectomy?
“This is a minimally invasive procedure whereby a blood clot is mechanically removed from a brain blood vessel, restoring blood flow and reducing stroke-related impacts. This intervention has become a life-saving treatment for adults with severe strokes and is particularly effective when performed within a few hours of the onset of symptoms,”
Explains Professor Panagiotis Papagiotou from the Medical School of the University of Athens, who took part in the international study.
Key Findings of the Study
The study included 208 children from 45 centres across 12 countries, focusing on cases of severe stroke in children treated with thrombectomy or medication. The main results include:
- Improved Recovery at Hospital Discharge: Children who underwent thrombectomy were in better condition upon discharge than those who received only medication, even when their initial symptoms were more severe.
- Higher Likelihood of Good Recovery: 81% of children who underwent thrombectomy achieved good functional independence, with few or no difficulties in daily life, compared to 63% of those who received only medication.
- Greater Chance of Full Recovery: More than half (51%) of children who had thrombectomy returned to full daily activities without any functional limitations, compared to 42% of children who received only medication.
Stroke in Children: Symptoms to Watch Out For
Stroke in children is rare but can have severe consequences. Symptoms may be subtle and often differ from those in adults, making parental vigilance crucial:
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Sudden speech difficulties
- Balance or walking problems
- Vision issues, such as double vision or loss of vision
- Seizures (rhythmic movements on one or both sides of the body)
The Case of the 15-Year-Old Patient
Approximately one year ago, a 15-year-old girl’s case became widely known after she suffered a severe stroke and was successfully treated with thrombectomy. Thanks to the procedure, she regained speech and mobility within minutes of the intervention and returned to normal life.
The girl experienced sudden paralysis on her right side and difficulty speaking. The thrombectomy, performed by Professor Papagiotou and Professor Vasilopoulou’s teams at the Stroke Intervention Centre, which operates in collaboration with Aiginiteio, Aretaieio, and Alexandra hospitals, resulted in her immediate recovery.
Professor Papagiotou remarked: “Although stroke in children is rare, it’s essential to stay vigilant, as early diagnosis and treatment can truly transform children’s lives. We have managed several cases of severe stroke in children in recent years, and each time we see the significant benefits that thrombectomy can offer.”
This study, the largest of its kind, highlights thrombectomy’s importance as a primary treatment option for children with severe stroke, provided the intervention is performed promptly within the first few hours after symptom onset, offering hope and potential for full recovery.
Edited from: ANA-MPA
