Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis in Pediatrics with Closed Head Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

This study aims to systematically review the current literature on pediatric cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) following closed head injury and to evaluate the clinical management of these patients. Systemic review of the literature was conducted using the following databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, Microsoft Academic, Clinical Trials, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. All databases were searched from their date of inception to June 2022. Inclusion criteria were applied to identify articles reporting on pediatric patients with CVST following closed head injury. Out of the articles screened, 23 met the inclusion criteria, reporting on 23 pediatric patients with CVST. Falls were the most common cause of traumatic CVST (52.2%), followed by motor vehicle accidents (30.4%). Nausea and vomiting were the most common presenting symptoms (71.4%), and magnetic resonance venogram was the most common diagnostic method (43.5%). Multisinus involvement was noted in 52.2% of cases. Patients with falls from height were more likely to receive conservative management than those with nonfall mechanisms of injury (p < 0.05). Pediatric CVST following closed head injury is a rare condition, with only case reports available in the literature. Prompt diagnosis and early treatment can lead to good survival and neurological outcomes. In severe cases, neurosurgical intervention may be necessary to prevent mortality and severe morbidity. This review highlights the need for further research to establish evidence-based management guidelines for this rare but potentially serious condition in the pediatric population.