Article Text
Abstract
Acute neonatal limb ischaemia (NLI) is most frequently an iatrogenic complication, however, may also occur in utero due to thromboembolism. There is no widely accepted protocol for treatment of NLI and limited evidence to guide management. Thrombolysis and surgical management have been attempted, though both are associated with significant morbidities. Milrinone is a phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitor used for its vasodilatory effects on the systemic and pulmonary vasculature. There is also emerging evidence for benefit of milrinone in ameliorating ischaemia-reperfusion injury. The authors present a case report of a term infant with spontaneous perinatal acute limb ischaemia secondary to near-completely occlusive thrombosis of the right subclavian artery. The infant was successfully managed conservatively with milrinone without requirement for thrombolysis or surgical intervention. Milrinone represents a novel treatment option for neonates with acute limb ischaemia and consideration of a trial of milrinone prior to higher risk treatment options is warranted in this patient group.
- neonatal intensive care
- therapeutic indications
- haematology (incl blood transfusion)
- medical management
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Footnotes
Contributors All authors contributed to the design of the case report. SB prepared the draft manuscript. SB, VS and JB reviewed and approved the final manuscript.
Funding The authors have not declared a specific grant for this research from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.
Competing interests None declared.
Patient consent for publication Parental/guardian consent obtained.
Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; externally peer reviewed.