A Sticky Situation: The Role of Thrombolytics in Left Ventricular Assist Device Thrombosis

Pump thrombosis is a potentially life-threatening complication of continuous-flow left ventricular assist device support. Escalation of antithrombotic therapy has historically been associated with variable efficacy and high rates of bleeding. Previous guidelines suggest thrombolytic therapy as an alternative treatment option in patients with device thrombosis in whom surgical device exchange would result in unacceptable operative risk. This blog will explore the use of thrombolytics for pump thrombosis and highlight important factors to consider with this strategy.