Dallas
214-456-3442
ccdc@childrens.com
Request an Appointment with codes: Cerebrovascular Disorder (CCDC)
The Center for Cerebrovascular Disorders at Children's Health℠ offers children and parents a collaborative group of experts that comprehensively diagnose and treat your child’s cerebrovascular disease, cerebral sinovenous thrombosis (CVST).
214-456-3442
ccdc@childrens.com
Request an Appointment with codes: Cerebrovascular Disorder (CCDC)
A cerebral sinovenous thrombosis or CSVT occurs when a blood clot forms and blocks a vein in the brain. When this happens, blocked blood flow can cause a hemorrhage or stroke.
This is uncommon in children, but we offer a high level of expertise in treating children when it does occur. Children who have a clotting disorder are at higher risk of cerebral sinovenous thrombosis.
At The Center for Cerebrovascular Disorders we are among the very best in the region at performing the most advanced procedures and therapies for the treatment of pediatric cerebrovascular disease. Each of our primary team members works solely in the pediatric setting with a clinical interest in disorders of the cerebrovascular system.
This program is the only one of its kind in Texas, and one of a handful across the nation. It offers a unique level of expertise in the management and treatment of patients with cerebral sinovenous thrombosis specific to children and adolescents. We are the only program in Dallas to offer pediatric neurosurgery and neuro-radiology coverage 24 hours a day by dedicated, pediatric specialized providers.
Please email ccdc@childrens.com to schedule an appointment.
In newborns, symptoms include:
In children and teens, symptoms include:
Most often, the condition becomes apparent after a brain hemorrhage or a stroke.
Cerebral sinovenous thrombosis is typically found after the vein has hemorrhaged or the child has experienced stroke symptoms.
If your doctor suspects a cerebral sinovenous thrombosis, diagnostic tests may include:
This procedure uses an instrument that produces high-frequency sound waves, which bounce off red blood cells. A duplex ultrasound can estimate how fast blood flows by measuring the rate of change in its pitch (frequency).
This procedure uses radiofrequency to create accurate two- and three-dimensional images of the brain and arteries in the neck and head.
This medical test uses X-rays to produces multiple three-dimensional pictures of the brain.
These tests can check for medical conditions that increase the risk of blood clots
This test is performed by an interventional radiologist who specializes in the care of children. This is extremely important as children have smaller blood vessels, limitations on dye administration, and specific radiation recommendations.
The cerebral angiogram is a minimally invasive procedure which uses a special contrast, or dye, to observe blood flow in the brain. During the procedure, the radiologist places a small IV or catheter in a blood vessel in the groin, which he or she then uses to reach the blood vessels that supply the brain. With the help of the special contrast or dye, an X-ray machine moves in different angles and takes pictures of the blood vessels. A team consisting of a radiologist, anesthesiologist, radiology technologists, and nurses will care for your child throughout the procedure.
Following the procedure, your child will have to lie flat for approximately four hours due to puncture of a large blood vessel in the groin, as this decreases the risk of bleeding. If needed, your child will receive medication to help him or her relax and rest during this time.
A cerebral sinovenous thrombosis is a very rare condition that can occur in children with complex medical problems and in those with blood disorders that increase the tendency for the blood to form clots. In some cases the cause can be an ear or sinus infection that will not heal, in which case the underlying cause must also be treated.
Additional medical management is provided through collaboration with neurology and our intensive care medical teams.