Recurrent thrombosis after mechanical circulatory support

Abstract

The immediate complication after implantation of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is more often bleeding than thromboembolic events. We report an unsual case of massive thrombus formation following systemic thrombolytic therapy which happened twice after implantation of MCS. Various mechanisms may contribute to this severe complication, but attention should be paid to patients who receive MCS after systemic thrombolysis because of the secondary hypercoagulability induced by this therapy. © The Author 2012. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.