Incidence and risk factors for deep vein thrombosis among pediatric burn patients

Abstract

Background: Patients with major burns covering a large total body surface area (%TBSA) fulfill all the criteria of Virchow's triad, as a sequela of their injury. This places these patients at increased risk for developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). However, data regarding the incidence of DVT in burn patients are minimal, especially in the pediatric age group. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the incidence of DVT in pediatric burn patients, identify possible risk factors for developing DVT, and explore the need for prophylactic treatment.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of 95 patients admitted to our Burn Unit was conducted. We included all pediatric patients with second- and third-degree burns admitted to the unit. Exclusion criteria were adult patients, those with first-degree burns and admitted to the unit for <72h, patients discharged against medical advice, those admitted for elective reconstructive surgery, secondary admissions for non-healing/infected burns, and patients with trauma-induced skin loss. A data collection sheet was utilized.

Results: The total incidence of thrombosis in our population was 4.2% (DVT, 3.1%; arterial thrombosis, 1.1%). Factors significantly associated with DVT included length of hospitalization (p=0.012), central venous catheter placement (p=0.013), and %TBSA (p=0.004). Unlike adult patients, weight for age (percentile) and body mass index were not significant risk factors for DVT in our patients.

Conclusion: Burns are a major risk factor for DVT, especially when covering large surface areas (≥40% TBSA) and combined with other factors (i.e., prolonged hospitalization and central lines). Thus, investigations for DVT and prophylactic anticoagulation should be considered for pediatric burn patients with these risk factors, even if they are asymptomatic.

Keywords: Deep vein thrombosis; Pediatric burns.