Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) thrombosis is a life-threatening complication. Multiple case reports describe successful nonsurgical management with thrombolytics, aggressive antiplatelet therapy, or percutaneous catheter-directed thrombectomy. However, consensus management of LVAD thrombosis has not been established and guidelines are urgently needed. In order to raise awareness of nonsurgical treatment options, we review the current strategies for the clinical diagnosis, management, and prevention of LVAD thrombosis.
© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.