Direct Thrombin Inhibitor for LVAD Thrombosis: A Closer Look. (July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rimsans, Jessica; Sylvester, Katelyn W.; Connors, Jean M.
• Is Part Of: Clinical and applied thrombosis/hemostasis. Volume 23:Number 5(2017)
• Page Start: 405
• Page End: 409
• Publication Date: 2017-07
• Subjects: left ventricular assist device -- LVAD -- bivalirudin -- thrombosis -- anticoagulants; Hemostasis -- Periodicals; Thrombosis -- Periodicals; 616.13
• DOI: 10.1177/1076029616672583
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1076-0296

Abstract

Available options for the treatment of advanced heart failure have expanded to include the use of mechanical circulatory assist devices to improve quality of life in those both eligible and ineligible for heart transplant. Although there have been significant advancements in device technologies, anticoagulation protocols, and multidisciplinary team management, bleeding and thrombosis are the most common adverse effects. Management strategies for pump thrombosis and their outcomes vary considerably among mechanical circulatory support centers and include intensification of antithrombotic therapy (medical) and device exchange (surgical). We describe a successful case of medical therapy for pump thrombosis with bivalirudin monotherapy.