Current practice managements regarding thromboembolic prophylaxis within the pediatric sarcoma patient population

OBJECTIVE: Children with cancer are approximately 600 times more likely to develop thromboses than the general pediatric population. Current management strategies for children have been extrapolated from adult studies and prophylaxis guidelines remain controversial. The purpose of this study is to survey the current thromboembolic prophylaxis practice methods of physicians treating pediatric sarcoma patients. METHODS: Physicians involved in the care of sarcoma patients were surveyed using a 5-question survey designed to evaluate current clinical practices. RESULTS: Of 107 responding physicians, 67 identified themselves as involved in the treatment of pediatric sarcoma patients. The providers most likely to use any form of deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis were orthopedic surgeons (60%), followed by general surgeons (45%), pediatric oncologists (30%), and medical oncologists (25%). Of the providers polled, 48% use mechanical forms, 20% use chemical forms, and 31% use a combination. CONCLUSIONS: Currently, there is a lack of consensus regarding thromboembolic prophylaxis for pediatric sarcoma patients.