Venous thromboembolism in children with lower limb fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Zain Habib, Emadeldin M Ahmed, Christos S Zipitis et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis assessed venous thromboembolism (VTE), risk factors, mortality, and pharmacological prophylaxis in children with lower limb fractures. Eight studies were included; all were retrospective and conducted in paediatric populations in the USA and China. In a meta-analysis of five studies of children aged 18 years or younger, the estimated overall VTE rate was 0.53% (95%CI 0.20-1.38). Evidence on risk factors and mortality was sparse, and the review found no evidence on the impact of VTE prophylaxis.
Key findings
- Across five studies of children aged 18 years or younger, the estimated VTE rate was 0.53% (95%CI 0.20-1.38).
- All eight included studies were retrospective and involved paediatric populations in the USA and China.
- Evidence on VTE risk factors and mortality was sparse; no evidence addressed the impact of pharmacological prophylaxis.
Why it matters
The review indicates that VTE occurs in children with lower limb fractures but is estimated to be infrequent. However, the limited evidence leaves uncertainty about which children are at greater risk, the consequences of VTE, and whether pharmacological prophylaxis is beneficial. These gaps matter when weighing potential risks and benefits in this population.
What to keep in mind
All included studies were retrospective, and evidence on risk factors, mortality, and prophylaxis was limited or absent.