Thrombosis of the ascending aorta during mechanical circulatory support in a patient with cardiogenic shock

Abstract

Cardiogenic shock after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a life-threatening complication and is most often related to abrupt vessel closure. We present the case of a patient who developed cardiogenic shock after PCI and was supported with intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation and the Levitronix CentriMag short-term mechanical circulatory support. He was evaluated for implantation of a ventricular assist device as bridge-to-transplantation. Preoperative transesophageal echocardiography revealed a massive thrombus of the aortic root and ascending aorta despite optimal anticoagulation regimen. The patient succumbed due to multiorgan failure. © 2010 Published by European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery.