Recommendations from the International Paediatric Stroke Organization on pediatric neurointerventional best practices based on Delphi consensus.

Abstract

Paediatric neurointervention (PNI) markedly differs from adult neuro-intervention, requiring highly subspecialized clinical skills, knowledge, and techniques. Minimum standards of practice are well established in adult neurointervention but are lacking in the field of PNI. We sought to develop expert consensus on best practices for neurointervention in children.Using a two-stage Delphi consensus model we sought expert opinions from PNI practitioners worldwide regarding best practices. A two-stage online de-identified survey of PNI practitioners was undertaken assessing opinions on a range of topics including minimum recommended caseloads for PNI centres. Minimum agreement rates of >60% were set to determine consensus on any specific question. Consensus opinions on best practices were reviewed by the International Paediatric Stroke Organization Executive Committee.For the first-stage survey there were n=50 responses and for the second-stage n=45 responses, with practitioners from all inhabited continents represented. Consensus-based best practices included: i) Elective endovascular therapeutic neuro-interventions should be performed in high-volume paediatric centres with an established multi-disciplinary paediatric neurovascular team, and ii) High-volume centres are those that undertake at least 20 paediatric endovascular therapeutic neuro-interventions annually. Paediatric thrombectomy in large-vessel occlusion stroke, an area of increasing interest and attention, poses unique time-sensitive multidisciplinary logistical challenges meriting a dedicated analysis, and as such is not within the purview of this report.Best practices for PNI reported here have been identified through expert consensus and are designed to enhance patient safety whilst providing appropriate clinical access to life-saving procedures.