Outcomes following neonatal portal vein thrombosis: A descriptive, single‐center study and review of anticoagulant therapy

Abstract Background Neonatal portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is uncommon with potentially serious complications that may manifest in infancy and childhood. Objective The primary aim of our study was to describe the short‐term and long‐term outcomes of neonatal PVT. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted from 2008 to 2016 of neonates diagnosed with PVT. A systematic review was also performed from 2000 to 2018 to evaluate anticoagulant therapy (ACT) in neonatal PVT. Results Forty‐four premature and 30 term infants (mean gestational age 30.7 vs 39.1 weeks, respectively) had PVT. Sixty‐eight involved the left portal vein, one involved only the main portal vein, and 5 involved ≥1 vein. PVT was catheter associated in 46 (62%); none of the 7 neonates tested had thrombophilia. Of 74 neonates, 19 (26%) received ACT and 55 (74%) were untreated. The mean follow‐up duration was 16.6 months (SD = 17.62; range, 0–89.6); 59.5% were followed for ≥6 months. On last ultrasound examination, thrombus resolution was documented in treated (ACT; n = 19) and nontreated ( n = 55) neonates: 12 (63%) versus 32 (58%) with complete resolution, 1 (5%) versus 6 (11%) partial, 0 versus 1 (2%) extension, and 6 (32%) versus 16 (29%) had nonprogressive lesions, respectively. Seventy‐one (96%) had no complications. Seventy‐one articles met inclusion criteria for the systematic review and 19 were retained for analysis after assessment. Conclusions PVT resolution rate was similar to previous reports. Although a low complication rate was detected, longer follow‐up is necessary to determine the need for early treatment and the precise incidence of outcomes such as portal hypertension.