Usefulness of contrast computed tomography for diagnosing left ventricular thrombus before impella insertion

Abstract

The Impella (Abiomed, Danvers, MA, USA) is a novel percutaneous heart pump device for left ventricular (LV) assistance; however, LV thrombus is a notable contraindication for this device. Contrast computed tomography assessment is useful for detecting LV thrombus and preventing thromboembolism in patients recommended for Impella use. <Learning objective: The Impella (Abiomed, Danvers, MA, USA) is a heart pump device which aspirates blood from a left ventricular (LV) cavity and ejects it into an ascending aorta. Therefore, LV thrombus should be explored before the Impella insertion to prevent systemic embolism. Generally, echocardiography is the first choice to detect LV thrombus. Given limited diagnostic sensitivity for detecting LV thrombus in echocardiography, contrast computed tomography might be a useful strategy for the patient targeting Impella insertion.>.

Keywords: Contrast computed tomography; Echocardiography; Impella; Left ventricular thrombus.