Why choose Cook Children’s Stroke and Thrombosis Program
Sometimes, a child's blood can clot in ways it shouldn't. These clots sometimes block blood flow to various organs throughout the body. If a blood clot disrupts blood flow to the brain, it's known as a stroke. At Cook Children's, we use a family-focused approach to carefully manage these conditions and support your child's long-term health.
What you can expect
When your child has a clotting disorder or has experienced a stroke, getting the right care at the right time makes all the difference. At Cook Children's, your family is supported by a team of pediatric specialists in hematology, neurology, and other areas who work closely to care for your child in the moments that matter most. From urgent treatment to ongoing follow-up, we're here to help your child heal, grow, and stay as healthy as possible. We offer:
Pediatric hematologists treat children's blood clots and strokes. At Cook Children's, our hematologists take part in the latest research studies on blood clots and strokes in children. You can be confident that your child will get the most current care possible. Just as important, our team understands what your family is going through and helps you feel informed and supported along the way. Your care team may include:
Stroke Neurology: Rachelle Herring, M.D., Fernando Acosta, M.D.
Stroke and Thrombosis Hematology: Marcela Torres, M.D., Jennifer Han, M.D.
Vascular Neurosurgeon: Richard Roberts, M.D.
Neuroradiologist: Madhan Bosemani, M.D.
Neuro Interventional Radiologist: Ronald Gerstle, M.D.
Your child will have access to all of the advanced specialisties that might be needed for their care. In addition to experienced stroke neurologists and stroke/thrombosis hematologists, your child might need interventional radiology or neuro-interventional radiology for their care. We also work closely with other specialists to adjust therapies to your child's needs.
Some children need medication to keep blood clots from forming inside the blood vessels, arteries or veins. We personalize treatment using the latest options in anti-clotting therapy. These drugs lower stroke risk and help protect kids who've already had one.
In Pediatric stroke as well as in acute pulmonary embolism and other emergent embolic complications, tine is of the essence. This is why a team of specialists is on standby 24/7, including pediatric dedicated stroke neurologists, stroke and thrombosis hematologists and neuro interventional radiologists. We perform rapid assessments and start treatments as quickly and as safely as possible with your child's recovery as our top priority. We keep your family informed and assured during overwhelming moments.
Advancing pediatric blood clotting disorder and stroke care
Our researchers are making big strides in treating blood clotting disorders and stroke in children. We participate in prominent research projects, including the International Pediatric Thrombosis Network studies and International Pediatric Stroke Study. We're helping to develop child-focused guidelines to safely use novel therapies in children. Explore active hematology clinical trials.
Treatments we offer
We care for your child's immediate needs while also thinking about their future health. Here are some of the ways we can help:
We check for inherited clotting disorders. These conditions often require specific types of anti-clotting drugs.
Remember this acronym, BE FAST, to know what to do if you notice signs of stroke in children:
- B - Balance: Is your child suddenly stumbling or losing balance?
- E - Eyes: Do they have sudden vision problems or eye movement issues?
- F - Face: Does one side of your child's face droop when they smile?
- A - Arms: Can they raise both arms or is one arm weak?
- S - Speech: Is their speech slurred, or do they have trouble speaking?
- T - Time: If you notice any of these signs, it's time to call 911 immediately.
Conditions that raise your child's stroke risk include:
- Cerebral arterial disorders
- Present at birth (congenital) disorders, such as PHACES syndrome
- Cerebral vasculitis
- Focal cerebral arteriopathy
- Heart disorders, including congenital defects and arrhythmias
- Inherited clotting disorders, such as Factor V Leiden mutation, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome
- Sickle cell disease
Hematologists are part of a large team providing outpatient care to stroke survivors. We coordinate all necessary tests and treatments to support your child's recovery. Get more information about our Stroke Clinic.
Stroke survivors benefit from intensive therapies available through our Rehabilitation Care Unit. Sophisticated offerings, including a state-of-the-art therapy gym, help optimize your child's brain function and abilities.
Managing clotting disorders and stroke risk requires ongoing care. We provide attentive support until your child is old enough to see an adult specialist.
Pharmacists work closely with hematologists and other specialists to deliver safe treatments.
Our caring team includes nurses and social workers who give you the support you need. In addition, our child life specialists help your child feel more comfortable and less worried during treatment.
Moments of magic
Hope and healing happen every day here at Cook Children's. Discover some of our highlights.
