Leipzig University Hospital (UKL) is one of the few centers in Germany that performs thrombectomies on children. Last year, neuroradiologists at the UKL successfully treated two infants with this procedure. In order to be optimally prepared for such rare cases, the doctors have recorded their experiences in a guide.

Strokes in children are rare, with 300 to 500 cases a year in Germany, but are often recognized late as the symptoms are atypical and young children are unable to express them clearly. Nevertheless, strokes are one of the ten most common causes of death in children, and more than half of those affected suffer permanent disabilities. Children with heart defects, coagulation disorders, vascular or metabolic diseases and infections of the central nervous system are particularly at risk.

A recent case shows the success of the UKL teams: a two-year-old boy from Thuringia was brought to Leipzig in time thanks to attentive parents and emergency services. After a rapid diagnosis by the pediatric radiology department, neuroradiologist Junior Professor Dr. Cindy Richter removed the blood clot with a catheter. The boy largely recovered. Such treatments require the cooperation of seven specialist disciplines, including pediatric and neuroradiology, anesthesiology and pediatrics.

The standardized procedures, set out in a guideline, enable rapid action in emergencies. The UKL also raises awareness of the risk of strokes in children and appeals to parents and doctors to visit a specialist center quickly if symptoms occur in order to avoid long-term damage.

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Gender note. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple references and gendered designations are avoided for the sake of better readability ected.