Cerebral embolism associated with left ventricular assist device support and successful therapy with intraarterial urokinase.

Abstract

A patient with a bioprosthetic aortic valve sustained a cerebral embolism during support with an implantable left ventricular assist device. This was lysed with intraarterial urokinase with complete resolution of the neurological deficit. Subsequently the patient underwent heart transplantation and remains neurologically intact. This case report is the first successful use of thrombolysis for cerebral embolism associated with a mechanical assist device.

• Authors: V Kasirajan, N G Smedira, J Perl 2nd, P M McCarthy
• Journal: The Annals of thoracic surgery (Ann Thorac Surg) Vol. 67 Issue 4 Pg. 1148-50 (Apr 1999) ISSN: 0003-4975 [Print] Netherlands
• PMID: 10320266 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator

Topics

• Heart-Assist Devices (adverse effects)
• Humans
• Injections, Intra-Arterial
• Intracranial Embolism and Thrombosis (drug therapy, etiology)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Thrombolytic Therapy (methods)
• Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator (administration & dosage)