Long-term anticoagulation in Kawasaki disease: Initial use of low molecular weight heparin is a viable option for patients with severe coronary artery abnormalities.

Patients with severe coronary artery involvement after Kawasaki disease (KD) require long-term systemic anticoagulation. We sought to compare our experience with thrombotic coronary artery occlusions, safety profile, and degree of coronary artery aneurysm regression in KD patients treated with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) versus warfarin. Medical records of all KD patients diagnosed between January 1990 and April 2007 were reviewed.

Arterial complications associated with cardiac catheterization in pediatric patients with a previous history of Kawasaki disease.

Objectives: To determine whether patients with Kawasaki Disease (KD) undergoing percutaneous catheter angiography were at increased risk of arterial complications at the point of arterial access compared to patients with structural heart abnormalities, but normal vessels.

Background: Systemic arterial damage can occur as a result of KD.

Methods: Medical histories of all patients with KD undergoing percutaneous catheter angiography at The Hospital for Sick Children between January 1990 and August 2008 were reviewed.

Spectrum and management of hypertriglyceridemia among children in clinical practice.

Objectives: The prevalence and identification of hypertriglyceridemia in youths will likely will increase in the future as a consequence of childhood obesity and increased screening for dyslipidemias. We sought to review our clinical experience with hypertriglyceridemia, evaluate factors associated with increased triglyceride levels, and review treatment options to provide guidance for management.

Methods: Clinical review of data for all patients who had > or =1 elevated triglyceride level (>4 mmol/L [>350 mg/dL]) while being monitored in a specialized lipid disorders clinic was performed.

Outcome and growth potential of left heart structures after neonatal intervention for aortic valve stenosis.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine trends of growth of left heart structures after intervention for neonatal aortic valve stenosis.

Background: The growth potential of left heart structures in neonatal aortic valve stenosis after relief of obstruction might influence risk for subsequent outcomes.

Methods: From 1994 to 2004, 53 patients underwent neonatal (< or =30 days old) balloon aortic valve dilation.