Nimodipine for the Prevention of Cerebral Vasospasm After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in 12 Children

Introduction Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a rare, but life-threatening neurological emergency. Cerebral vasospasm is a complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage that contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality. Nimodipine has been used in adults to reduce the incidence of cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage and improve long-term outcomes. There are, however, no data in children. Methods Records of children with a confirmed diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage who received nimodipine between January 1, 2005 and August 31, 2013 were reviewed. Dosing of nimodipine and associated hypotensive events were recorded. Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography, cranial computerized tomography, and angiography were followed as a measure of cerebral vasospasm, rebleeding, and subsequent infarction. Results Twelve children (average age 11.8 ± 3.3 years, age range 3.5 to 17.3 years) were included. Aneurysm was responsible for the highest percentage (41.7%) of subarachnoid hemorrhage events. The mean dose of oral nimodipine was 1 mg/kg every 4 hours and was associated with a high rate of hypotension requiring intervention or dose modification. Clinical outcomes while on nimodipine therapy varied; evidence of vasospasm was observed in 67%, new infarction in 33%, and rebleeding in 17%. Functional and cognitive deficits were minor in two-thirds and absent in the remaining individuals. All patients survived until hospital discharge. Conclusions Oral nimodipine after subarachnoid hemorrhage in children does not eliminate vasospasm, rebleeding, or infarction and is associated with significant hypotension. Nevertheless, clinical outcomes appear favorable relative to the adult population who receive nimodipine. Further study, with dose titration, is warranted.