Aortic Root Thrombus in a Left Ventricular Assist Device Patient as a Cause for Intractable Ventricular Tachycardia

Abstract

Aortic root thrombosis (ART) is an uncommon complication after left ventricular assist device implantation. We describe a unique postoperative presentation of intractable ventricular tachycardia as a result of an aortic root thrombus extending into the left main coronary artery. This case highlights the importance of a high degree of suspicion and anticoagulation for ART in the setting of intractable postoperative ventricular tachycardia and limited opening of the aortic valve. Second, whereas most reported cases of ART have been managed conservatively by optimizing left ventricular assist device speed and anticoagulation, we demonstrate the feasibility of early surgical management.