Timely Management of Obstructive Prosthetic Valve Thrombosis

Abstract

Obstructive bioprosthetic valve thrombosis is associated with hemodynamic compromise, and evidence on management with fibrinolysis is limited. Echocardiography is required to assess thrombus size and its effects on valve gradients, area, and leaflet motion. This case demonstrates use of echocardiography guided slow-infusion low-dose fibrinolytic therapy in a patient with obstructive bioprosthetic valve thrombosis. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.)

Keywords

• anticoagulants
• bioprosthetic
• mitral
• thrombosis
• thrombolysis
• valves