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Objectives: Potential thrombotic and antifibrinolytic influence of endometriosis on haemostasis has been recently reported in the literature, as well as increased cardiovascular morbidity in women suffering from the disease. We performed a pilot study to assess the influence of endometriosis on the thrombus formation process under in vitro flow conditions. Material and methods: This study compared women with confirmed endometriosis (n = 23) surgically and control healthy subjects (n = 10). In both groups, the same exclusion criteria were used: a prior episode of thrombosis diagnosed as acquired or inherited thrombophilia, neoplasm, and an uncertain family history of thrombosis. We evaluated the whole blood thrombogenicity using T-TAS® at a shear rate of 240 s-1 (Total-Thrombus Analysis System, Zacros, Japan). Results: The blood clot formation initiation time (T10) and occlusion time (OT) were significantly shortened in the endometriosis group (p < 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC30) of blood clot time formation values (BCTF) was substantially higher in the patients suffering from a disease (p = 0.03). An increase in AUC (TTAS) values by 100 increases the risk of developing endometriosis by 1.56-fold [adjusted OR = 1.56 (p = 0.01);(95% CI: 1.10–2.18)]. Inflammatory markers (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and the leucocyte, neutrophil, basophil, and neutrophil concentrations) were also substantially higher in the endometriosis group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The alteration of the T-TAS and NLR values supports the thesis of a shift of the equilibrium towards thrombosis in women who have endometriosis. This phenomenon links to a state of chronic inflammation. It is detectable using a novel system for the quantitative assessment of the platelet thrombus formation process under flow conditions in vitro .

Background: Current guidelines recommend electrical cardioversion (ECV) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) after at least 3 weeks of adequate non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOAC) treatment without prior transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). However, in clinical practice in some centres, TEE is performed before ECV in patients with AF. The aim of the study was to evaluate prevalence of thromboembolic and hemorrhagic complications in patients with AF treated with NOACs and undergoing ECV without prior TEE. Methods: This observational, multicentre study included consecutive patients with AF treated with NOACs who were admitted for ECV without prior TEE. Thromboembolic events and major bleeding complications were investigated during a 30-day follow-up. Results: In the study group there were 611 patients, mean age was 66.3 ± 9.2 years, 40% were women. 52 (8.5%) patients had a low thromboembolic risk, 148 (24.2%) patients had an intermediate thromboembolic risk and 411 (67.2%) patients had a high thromboembolic risk. In the study group 253 (41.4%) patients were treated with rivaroxaban, 252 (41.2%) patients were treated with dabigatran and 106 (17.3%) patients were treated with apixaban. Reduced doses of NOACs were administered to 113 (18.9%) patients. In the entire study group, there were no thromboembolic events or major bleeding complications during the in-hospital stay and the 30-day follow-up. Conclusions: In this “real-world” study of AF patients treated with NOACs, it was proved that ECV is safe without a preceding TEE, regardless of the risk of thromboembolic complications and of the type of NOAC used.

A 68-year-old woman was admitted to the hospital for elective total knee arthroplasty in both knees without preceding heparin exposure. She developed adrenal haemorrhage and thrombocytopaenia on postoperative day 12, followed by right leg arterial occlusion and multiple venous intra-abdominal sites thrombosis. After given unfractionated heparin to treat arterial occlusion, platelet count was gradually declined. Spontaneous heparin-induced thrombocytopaenia was diagnosed by heparin-induced platelet activation test with light transmission aggregometry. The patient was successfully treated with fondaparinux and intravenous immunoglobulin. Apixaban was given after recovery of platelet count. Resolution of both thrombus along aorta and adrenal haemorrhage were shown by CT of whole abdomen after 2 months of treatment. Our case demonstrates that this serious complication is important but seldom recognised early.

Acute portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a rare disorder defined by the sudden occlusion of the portal vein, which could be partial or complete. Prothrombotic states, inherited or acquired, are thought to be the cause in patients without cirrhosis or malignancy. However, the aetiology of some cases remains idiopathic despite a multidisciplinary diagnostic approach. The initial diagnostic modality to confirm PVT is either contrast-enhanced abdominal (CT) or MRI; as it can identify predisposing factors, and detect evidence of complications. Eliciting the underlying aetiology is critical to guide overall management and prevent future recurrence. The purpose of treatment is to stop thrombus extension and achieve portal vein patency by anticoagulation to optimise outcomes. Herein, we present an unusual case of spontaneous PVT in a young woman. We will also discuss the evaluation of patients without obvious aetiology.

Objective The risk of embolization to distal territory or to new territory in mechanical thrombectomy remains a major issue despite advancements in technological device. This condition can be caused by a large and firm dropped thrombus without passing through a guiding catheter during stent retriever or aspiration catheter withdrawal. This report introduced a novel technique referred to as retrograde angiography to detect dropped thrombus. Methods The retrograde angiography to detect dropped thrombus technique is a kind of retrograde angiography that consists of a contrast medium injection via a distal microcatheter and aspiration through an inflated balloon-guiding catheter. This method was used to detect dropped thrombus at the balloon-guiding catheter tip when back flow was blocked from the balloon-guiding catheter after stent retriever or aspiration catheter withdrawal. We retrospectively reviewed four consecutive patients who underwent the retrograde angiography to detect dropped thrombus technique during mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation between January 2018 and January 2021. Results Three of four patients had dropped thrombus, which was diagnosed with the technique and retrieved completely with subsequent procedures while maintaining the balloon-guiding catheter inflated. None of the patients experienced embolization to distal territory/embolization to new territory, and a successful reperfusion was achieved in all four cases. Conclusions The retrograde angiography to detect dropped thrombus is a technique to detect a dropped thrombus at the balloon-guiding catheter tip and allows us to retrieve it with subsequent mechanical thrombectomy procedures while maintaining the balloon-guiding catheter inflated and it may be useful for reducing the risk of embolization to distal territory/embolization to new territory.

Background In secondary cardiovascular disease prevention, treatments blocking platelet-derived secondary mediators pose a risk of bleeding. Pharmacological interference of the interaction of platelets with exposed vascular collagens is an attractive alternative, with clinical trials ongoing. Antagonists of the collagen receptors, glycoprotein VI (GPVI), and integrin α2β1, include recombinant GPVI-Fc dimer construct Revacept, 9O12 mAb based on the GPVI-blocking reagent Glenzocimab, Syk tyrosine-kinase inhibitor PRT-060318, and anti-α2β1 mAb 6F1. No direct comparison has been made of the antithrombic potential of these drugs. Methods Using a multiparameter whole-blood microfluidic assay, we compared the effects of Revacept, 9O12-Fab, PRT-060318, or 6F1 mAb intervention with vascular collagens and collagen-related substrates with varying dependencies on GPVI and α2β1. To inform on Revacept binding to collagen, we used fluorescent-labelled anti-GPVI nanobody-28. Results and Conclusion In this first comparison of four inhibitors of platelet–collagen interactions with antithrombotic potential, we find that at arterial shear rate: (1) the thrombus-inhibiting effect of Revacept was restricted to highly GPVI-activating surfaces; (2) 9O12-Fab consistently but partly inhibited thrombus size on all surfaces; (3) effects of GPVI-directed interventions were surpassed by Syk inhibition; and (4) α2β1-directed intervention with 6F1 mAb was strongest for collagens where Revacept and 9O12-Fab were limitedly effective. Our data hence reveal a distinct pharmacological profile for GPVI-binding competition (Revacept), GPVI receptor blockage (9O12-Fab), GPVI signaling (PRT-060318), and α2β1 blockage (6F1 mAb) in flow-dependent thrombus formation, depending on the platelet-activating potential of the collagen substrate. This work thus points to additive antithrombotic action mechanisms of the investigated drugs.

The endothelium is a critical mediator of homeostasis on blood-contacting surfaces in the body, serving as a selective barrier to regulate processes such as clotting, immune cell adhesion, and cellular response to fluid shear stress. Implantable cardiovascular devices including stents, vascular grafts, heart valves, and left ventricular assist devices are in direct contact with circulating blood and carry a high risk for platelet activation and thrombosis without a stable endothelial cell (EC) monolayer. Development of a healthy endothelium on the blood-contacting surface of these devices would help ameliorate risks associated with thrombus formation and eliminate the need for long-term anti-platelet or anti-coagulation therapy. Although ECs have been seeded onto or recruited to these blood-contacting surfaces, most ECs are lost upon exposure to shear stress due to circulating blood. Many investigators have attempted to generate a stable EC monolayer by improving EC adhesion using surface modifications, material coatings, nanofiber topology, and modifications to the cells. Despite some success with enhanced EC retention in vitro and in animal models, no studies to date have proven efficacious for routinely creating a stable endothelium in the clinical setting. This review summarizes past and present techniques directed at improving the adhesion of ECs to blood-contacting devices.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) has been understood as a consumptive coagulopathy. However, impaired hemostasis is a component of DIC that occurs in a progressive manner. The critical concept of DIC is systemic activation of coagulation with vascular endothelial damage. DIC is the dynamic coagulation/fibrinolysis disorder that can proceed from compensated to decompensated phases, and is not simply impaired hemostasis, a misunderstanding that continues to evoke confusion among clinicians. DIC is a critical step of disease progression that is important to monitor over time. Impaired microcirculation and subsequent organ failure due to pathologic microthrombi formation are the pathophysiologies in sepsis-associated DIC. Impaired hemostasis due to coagulation factor depletion from hemodilution, shock, and hyperfibrinolysis occurs in trauma-associated DIC. Overt-DIC diagnostic criteria have been used clinically for more than 20 years but may not be adequate to detect the compensated phase of DIC, and due to different underlying causes, there is no “one-size-fits-all criteria.” Individualized criteria for heterogeneous conditions continue to be proposed to facilitate the diagnosis. We believe that future research will provide therapeutics using new diagnostic criteria. Finally, DIC is also classified as either acute or chronic, and acute DIC results from progressive coagulation activation over a short time and requires urgent management. In this review, we examine the advances in research for DIC.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE In patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and a large vessel occlusion (LVO), thrombus migration (T-Mig) is a common phenomenon before mechanical thrombectomy (MT), revealed by pre-treatment imaging. Previous works have used qualitative scales to define T-Mig. The aim of this study was to evaluate the determinants and impact of quantitatively assessed T-Mig on procedural characteristics and clinical outcome. METHODS Consecutive patients with AIS due to LVO treated by MT at a reference academic hospital were analysed. Distance between vessel origin and beginning of the thrombus on MRI (3D-time-of-flight and/or contrast-enhanced magnetic-resonance-angiography) and digital-substracted-angiography (DSA) were measured in millimeters using a curve tool. Thrombus migration was defined quantitatively as ∆TD calculated as the difference between pre-MT-DSA and MRI thrombus location. ∆TD was rated as significant if above 5mm. RESULTS A total of 267 patients were included (mean age 70±12 years; 46% females) were analyzed. Amongst them, 65 (24.3%) experienced any degree of T-Mig. T-Mig was found to be associated with iv-tPA administration prior to thrombectomy (β-estimate 2.52; 95% CI [1.25-3.79]; p

Rotational atherectomy (RA) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is uncommon and its use in a thrombotic lesion is labelled a contraindication by its manufacturer due to the concern for further increase in platelet activation and aggregation by the spinning burr or distal embolization of the thrombotic material promoting no-reflow (NR). However, thrombus burden varies significantly in the STEMI setting and can be classified according to the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) thrombus grade (TG). This case demonstrates the successful off-label use of RA-assisted primary percutaneous coronary intervention to facilitate treatment of a heavily calcified ostial right coronary artery lesion with low thrombotic burden (TIMI TG 0) in an octogenarian STEMI patient. Atherectomy drug cocktails, intracoronary vasodilators, short burr runs and avoidance of rotating the burr at slower than minimum approved rotational speed contribute to atherectomy success and decrease the chances of NR.

Patient undergoing PCI can have distal embolization and microvascular obstruction despite normalization of epicardial blood flow. Aspiration thrombectomy has been studied previously to reduce infarct size, but prior methods of aspiration thrombectomy were associated with increased risk of stroke and is currently recommended as a bailout strategy. Penumbra CAT RX has been recently approved for aspiration thrombectomy, we evaluated the catheter's use in an academic cardiac catheterization lab. Patients undergoing cardiac catherization at an academic medical center who had deployment of the Penumbra CAT RX from 2017 through 2020 were included in the case series. TIMI flow pre and post procedure were determined by individual operator. Endpoints included 30-day cardiovascular death and post-procedural stroke. The Penumbra CAT RX catheter was used in a total of 34 patients, with 71% STEMI, 23% NSTEMI , 3% UA, and 3% new onset heart failure. TIMI 3 flow was achieved in 88% of cases. There were no cases of 30-day cardiovascular death or post procedural stroke. Aspiration thrombectomy continues to have clinical benefit in modern cardiac catherization laboratories with use in select cases. The Penumbra CAT RX appears to be safe and highly effective at thrombus removal in the acute setting without increased stroke risk as seen with manual aspiration thrombectomy.

BACKGROUND: Bioprosthetic valve thrombosis may have implications for valve function and durability.OBJECTIVES: Using a novel glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor radiotracer 18F-GP1, we investigated whether positron emission tomography (PET)-computed tomography (CT) could detect thrombus formation on bioprosthetic aortic valves.METHODS: Ex vivo experiments were performed on human platelets and explanted bioprosthetic aortic valves. In a prospective cross-sectional study, patients with either bioprosthetic or normal native aortic valves underwent echocardiography, CT angiography, and 18F-GP1 PET-CT.RESULTS: Flow cytometric analysis, histology, immunohistochemistry, and autoradiography demonstrated selective binding of 18F-GP1 to activated platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptors and thrombus adherent to prosthetic valves. In total, 75 participants were recruited: 53 with bioprosthetic valves (median time from implantation 37 months [IQR: 12-80 months]) and 22 with normal native aortic valves. Three participants had obstructive valve thrombosis, and a further 3 participants had asymptomatic hypoattenuated leaflet thickening on CT angiography. All bioprosthetic valves, but none of the native aortic valves, demonstrated focal 18F-GP1 uptake on the valve leaflets: median maximum target-to-background ratio 2.81 (IQR: 2.29-3.48) vs 1.43 (IQR: 1.28-1.53) (P < 0.001). Higher 18F-GP1 uptake was independently associated with duration of valve implantation and hypoattenuated leaflet thickening. All 3 participants with obstructive valve thrombosis were anticoagulated for 3 months, leading to resolution of their symptoms, improvement in mean valve gradients, and a reduction in 18F-GP1 uptake.CONCLUSIONS: Adherence of activated platelets is a common and sustained finding on bioprosthetic aortic valves. 18F-GP1 uptake is higher in the presence of thrombus, regresses with anticoagulation, and has potential use as an adjunctive clinical tool. (18F-GP1 PET-CT to Detect Bioprosthetic Aortic Valve Thrombosis; NCT04073875).

Performing transesophageal imaging of the left atrial appendage is key before cardioversion for atrial fibrillation. Ultrasound artifacts may induce misinterpretation and decrease in confidence for thrombus exclusion.

Endovascular thrombectomy procedures are significantly influenced by the mechanical response of thrombi to the multi-axial loading imposed during retrieval. Compression tests are commonly used to determine compressive ex vivo thrombus and clot analogue stiffness. However, there is a shortage of data in tension. This study compares the tensile and compressive response of clot analogues made from the blood of healthy human donors in a range of compositions. Citrated whole blood was collected from six healthy human donors. Contracted and non-contracted fibrin clots, whole blood clots and clots reconstructed with a range of red blood cell (RBC) volumetric concentrations (5–80%) were prepared under static conditions. Both uniaxial tension and unconfined compression tests were performed using custom-built setups. Approximately linear nominal stress–strain profiles were found under tension, while strong strain-stiffening profiles were observed under compression. Low- and high-strain stiffness values were acquired by applying a linear fit to the initial and final 10% of the nominal stress–strain curves. Tensile stiffness values were approximately 15 times higher than low-strain compressive stiffness and 40 times lower than high-strain compressive stiffness values. Tensile stiffness decreased with an increasing RBC volume in the blood mixture. In contrast, high-strain compressive stiffness values increased from 0 to 10%, followed by a decrease from 20 to 80% RBC volumes. Furthermore, inter-donor differences were observed with up to 50% variation in the stiffness of whole blood clot analogues prepared in the same manner between healthy human donors.

Among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who have high risk of bleeding secondary to haematologic disorders, left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion therapy has been shown to be an excellent alternative to long-term use of oral anticoagulation for thromboembolic stroke prevention. However, there remains a major concern of device-associated thrombosis post-procedure, that can lead to life-threatening embolic events. To this date, there is no systematic guideline for the selection and management of patients with haematological disorders with LAA occlusion therapy, especially in those with platelet disorders such as immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Patients with platelet disorders are at a higher risk for bleeding; however, that does not prevent such patients from thromboembolic events secondary to AF. We present a case of ITP with permanent AF, where an LAA device was complicated by thrombus formation due to challenges faced with anticoagulation therapy.

Isolated dissection of one of the mesenteric arteries without concurrent involvement of the aorta is a rare clinical entity and an unusual cause of abdominal pain. It usually involves one artery, most commonly the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) followed by the coeliac artery. We are reporting a rare case where both coeliac and SMA were showing dissection. We are reporting a case of 60-year-old hypertensive male who came with worsening abdominal pain for 5 days; CT scan showed coeliac and SMA dissection without any imaging evidence of intestinal ischaemia. He was successfully managed medically with bowel rest and anticoagulation. Two weeks of follow-up CT scan showed no progression or thrombus formation. For complicated cases, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of a visceral artery or open surgical exploration or hybrid approach is required. However, for stable uncomplicated cases, medical therapy alone is sufficient.

The bi-atrial surgical technique of heart transplantation is associated with postoperative atrial dysfunction, sinus node dysfunction, valvular dysfunction, and bi-atrial enlargement predisposing to atrial arrhythmia with thrombus formation. This report deals with a very late thrombus formation in the neo-atrium of a heart transplanted using the bi-atrial technique. The absence of arrhythmia and absence of any history of intake of prothrombotic medications make it noteworthy.

BACKGROUND: The natural history of peridevice leak (PDL) following left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) is unknown. This study sought to investigate changes of PDL from 2 until 12 months after LAAO, using cardiac computed tomography (CT), and to assess the potential association between persistent PDL and clinical outcomes METHODS: Single-center observational study of Amplatzer LAAO implants between 2010 and 2017 (n = 206). Patients with 2 and 12 months cardiac CT were included in the study (n = 153). Images were blindly analyzed. PDL was characterized by frequency and size at the device disc, lobe, and left atrial appendage contrast patency. Patients were followed for the composite outcome of ischemic stroke, transient ischemic attack, systemic embolism, or all-cause death. Median follow up from LAAO was 3.1 (2.3-4.3) years.RESULTS: Contrast patency was present in 101 (66%) and 72 (47%) (p CONCLUSION: Persistent PDL was frequently observed following LAAO with Amplatzer devices. The PDL frequency and size appeared unchanged between 2 and 12 months. Persistent PDL was not significantly associated with worse clinical outcomes, yet this needs further delineation in future studies.

A series of abdominal computed tomography scans of an asymptomatic 40-year-old woman with a history of umbilical cord blood transplantation (CBT) for leukemia at 19 years old revealed the long-term gradual development of a right hepatic vein thrombus and stenosis of the inferior vena cava, leading to a diagnosis of Budd-Chiari syndrome. The Budd-Chiari syndrome in this case might have been influenced by the patient's history of multiple liver abscesses after CBT and associated thrombus formation, in addition to the hormone replacement therapy with estradiol and dydrogesterone she was taking. This case provides insight into the development of Budd-Chiari syndrome.

Neonatal myocardial infarction due to coronary thrombus is a rare cause of acute heart failure and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. We present a rare case of a full-term newborn who developed coronary artery thrombus treated with intracoronary recombinant tissue plasminogen activator infusion while undergoing therapeutic hypothermia. Also, we describe a unique treatment strategy to support systemic circulation sparing the patient from neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and its complications. Neonatal myocardial infarction should be suspected and ruled out in sick newborns.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical characteristics, the incidence of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus and its predictors, and spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) in a population of patients with AF depending on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) values.This study included 1962 patients who underwent transesophageal echocardiographic examination prior to cardioversion or ablation in the years 2014-2018 in three cardiac centers.More than a quarter of AF patients had decreased eGFR (60 mL/min/1.73 m2) and were characterized as a high-risk population, with more comorbidities, higher thromboembolic and bleeding risk compared to those with normal renal function. Oral anticoagulation (OAC) was prescribed in 97% and 93% of patients with decreased and normal eGFR, respectively, with a higher prevalence of prescribed non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs). The incidence of LAA thrombus (24%, 9% and 4%) and SEC (25%, 25% and 19%) increases simultaneously with a decrease in eGFR (30, 30-59 and ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively). Among patients prescribed reduced doses of NOAC, those with decreased eGFR were more often observed with LAA thrombus (10% vs. 2.5%). Non-paroxysmal AF, heart failure and previous bleeding were predictors of LAA thrombus, irrespective of eGFR value. CKD was the predictor of LAA thrombus in all patients including those with non-paroxysmal AF, males, without diabetes, without hypertension and with CHA2DS2-VASc2.Despite OAC, patients with concomitant AF and CKD remain at high risk for LAA thrombus formation.

To evaluate the effectiveness of elastic compression stockings (ECS) in prevention of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) in patients suffering from proximal deep venous thrombosis (DVT) who did not undergo thrombus removal procedures.In this randomized trial, patients with Iliofemoral venous thrombosis (IFDVT) and femoral-popliteal venous thrombosis who had not undergone thrombus removal procedures were screened at a single medical institution between December 2016 and June 2018. These patients were randomly assigned as an ECS group (wear ECS) and control group (not wear ECS). The primary end point was the incidence of PTS based on the Villalta scale at 24 months. The secondary end points included patient quality of life and symptom severity based on the VEINES-QoL/Sym questionnaire. Recurrent DVT in the same limb, compliance with ECS use, and other adverse events were also recorded. A logistic regression analysis was also performed to determine risk factors of PTS.Two hundred thirty-two patients were included in this study. One hundred thirteen patients were in the ECS group and 119 in the control group. The incidence of PTS was 42.0% in the ECS group and 57.8% in the control group at 24 months (risk ratio [RR], 0.726; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.547-0.964; P = .024). The VEINES-QoL score was 63.7 ± 4.6 in the ECS group, which was higher than in the control group (60.6 ± 6.9; P .001). Moreover, the VEINES-Sym scores revealed that patients in the ECS group reported better symptom relief than those in the control group (45.8 ± 5.1 vs 43.8 ± 6.1; P = .014). According to Logistic regression analysis of the entire cohort, IFDVT was a risk factor for PTS (RR, 2.253; 95% CI, 1.136-4.468) and high compliance with the use of ECS was protect factor (RR, 0.516; 95% CI, 0.277-0.961).These results suggest that ECS can prevent PTS in patients with IFDVT and femoral popliteal venous thrombosis who do not undergo thrombus removal procedures.

Pulmonary CTA is a ubiquitous study interpreted by radiologists with different levels of experience in a variety of practice settings. Pulmonary embolism (PE) can range from an incidental and clinically insignificant finding to a clinically significant thrombus that can be managed on an outpatient basis to a potentially fatal condition requiring immediate medical or invasive management. Accordingly, a clear and concise pulmonary CTA report should effectively communicate the most pertinent findings to help the treating medical team diagnose or exclude the diagnosis of PE and provide information to guide appropriate management. In this expert panel narrative review, we discuss the purpose of the radiology report for pulmonary CTA, the optimal report format, the relevant findings that need to be addressed and their clinical significance.

A lotus root-like appearance on blood vessels is a rare abnormality. The multiple channels within arteries may represent the recanalization or neovascularization of the thrombus. This abnormality is most frequently found in coronary arteries. A 39-year-old woman had a thrombus-like structure in the external iliac artery. We subsequently performed an endovascular treatment six months later due to intermittent claudication. A lotus root-like appearance was found on intravascular ultrasound. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report a case of lotus root-like appearance in lower-extremity arteries.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a permanent dilatation of the abdominal aorta, usually accompanied by thrombus formation. The current clinical imaging modalities cannot reliably visualize the thrombus composition. Remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) during AAA development leads to stiffness changes, providing a potential imaging marker. 14 apolipoprotein E-deficient mice underwent surgery for angiotensin II-loaded osmotic minipump implantation. 4 weeks post-op, 5 animals developed an AAA. The aneurysm was imaged ex vivo by microscopic multifrequency magnetic resonance elastography (µMMRE) with an in-plane resolution of 40 microns. Experiments were performed on a 7-Tesla preclinical magnetic resonance imaging scanner with drive frequencies between 1000 Hz and 1400 Hz. Shear wave speed (SWS) maps indicating stiffness were computed based on tomoelastography multifrequency inversion. As control, the aortas of 5 C57BL/6J mice were examined with the same imaging protocol. The regional variation of SWS in the thrombus ranging from 0.44±0.07 to 1.20±0.31 m/s was correlated fairly strong with regional histology-quantified ECM accumulation (R2=0.79). Our results suggest that stiffness changes in aneurysmal thrombus reflect ECM remodeling, which is critical for AAA risk assessment. In the future, µMMRE could be used for a mechanics-based clinical characterization of AAAs in patients. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: : To our knowledge, this is the first study mapping the stiffness of abdominal aortic aneurysms with microscopic resolution of 40 µm. Our work revealed that stiffness critically changes due to extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in the aneurysmal thrombus. We were able to image various levels of ECM remodeling in the aneurysm reflected in distinct shear wave speed patterns with a strong correlation to regional histology-quantified ECM accumulation. The generated results are significant for the application of microscopic multifrequency magnetic resonance elastography for quantification of pathological remodeling of the ECM and may be of great interest for detailed characterization of AAAs in patients.

BACKGROUND In patients with prosthetic heart valves (PHV), there are distinct treatment implications based on prosthetic valve dysfunction (PVD) etiology. We investigated whether evaluation for PVD etiology on computed tomography (CT) has prognostic value for adverse clinical outcomes. METHODS Consecutive patients with suspected PVD that had a clinically indicated contrast chest CT and echocardiogram done within 1 year of each other were identified retrospectively from the Prosthetic Heart Valve CT Registry at the University of Minnesota. CTs and echocardiograms were assessed for potential PVD etiologies of pannus, structural valve degeneration (SVD) and thrombus, as per standard guidelines. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were performed to assess association with a composite outcome of reoperation and all-cause mortality. RESULTS 132 patients (51.5% male, mean age 62.1 ​± ​19.3 years) with suspected PVD were included. There were 97 tissue valves, 31 mechanical valves and 4 transcatheter valves. The location of the valve was as follows: 72 aortic, 45 mitral, 8 tricuspid, and 7 pulmonic. A PVD etiology was diagnosed on CT in 80 (60.6%) patients, and on echocardiography in 45 (34.1%) patients, largely driven by a diagnosis of SVD on both modalities. Significant univariate predictors of the composite outcome included CT diagnosis of SVD (P ​

Despite the fact that acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is the "gold" standard for the prevention of cardiovascular complications in patients with coronary heart disease (CAD), a number of patients still have risks of atherothrombosis. In the present study, the antithrombotic effect of ASA in patients with CAD was assessed in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) using integral tests of the hemostasis study: the T-TAS system (Total Thrombus-formation Analysis System) and the thrombin generation test (TGT). The study involved 34 patients with stable CAD (11 women, 23 men) and people (15 women, 18 men) in the control group. As a result of assessing the activity of thrombus formation using the T-TAS system, a significant decrease in the area under the curve (AUC10) was found in the group with CAD patients compared with the control (135.6 [88.0-222.3] and 260.5 [217.3-301.9], respectively, p.Nesmotria na to, chto atsetilsalitsilovaia kislota (ASK) iavliaetsia zolotym standartom profilaktiki serdechno-sosudistykh oslozhneniĭ (SSO) u bol'nykh ishemicheskoĭ bolezn'iu serdtsa (IBS), vse zhe u riada patsientov sokhraniaiutsia riski aterotromboza. V nastoiashchem issledovanii provedena otsenka antitromboticheskogo éffekta ASK u patsientov s IBS s pomoshch'iu integral'nykh testov issledovaniia gemostaza: sistemy T-TAS (total thrombus-formation analysis system) i testa generatsii trombina (TGT) v bogatoĭ trombotsitami plazme (PRP — platelet rich plasma). Obsledovano 34 patsienta so stabil'noĭ IBS (11 zhenshchin, 23 muzhchiny) i 33 cheloveka (15 zhenshchin, 18 muzhchin) gruppy kontrolia. V rezul'tate otsenki aktivnosti tromboobrazovaniia s pomoshch'iu sistemy T-TAS obnaruzheno znachimoe snizhenie ploshchadi pod krivoĭ (AUC10) v gruppe s IBS po sravneniiu s kontrol'noĭ (135,6 [88,0-222,3] i 260,5 [217,3-301,9], r.

Contrast ultrasound has a variety of applications in cardiovascular medicine, both in diagnosing cardiovascular disease as well as providing prognostic information. Visualization of intravascular contrast microbubbles is based on acoustic cavitation, the characteristic oscillation that results in changes in the reflected ultrasound waves. At high power, this acoustic response generates sufficient shear that is capable of enhancing endothelium-dependent perfusion in atherothrombotic cardiovascular disease (sonoperfusion). The oscillation and collapse of microbubbles in response to ultrasound also induces microstreaming and jetting that can fragment thrombus (sonothrombolysis). Several preclinical studies have focused on identifying optimal diagnostic ultrasound settings and treatment regimens. Clinical trials have been performed in acute myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease often with improved outcome. In the coming years, results of ongoing clinical trials along with innovation and improvements in sonothrombolysis and sonoperfusion will determine whether this theragnostic technique will become a valuable addition to reperfusion therapy.

Objectives A biomechanical approach to the rupture risk of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) could be a solution to ensure a personalized estimate of this risk. It is still difficult to know in what conditions, the assumptions made by biomechanics, are valid. The objective of this work was to determine the individual biomechanical rupture threshold and to assess the correlation between their rupture sites and the locations of their maximum stress comparing two computed tomography scan (CT) before and at time of rupture. Materials and Methods We included 5 patients who had undergone two CT; one within the last 6 months period before rupture and a second CT scan just before the surgical procedure for the rupture. All DICOM data, both pre- and rupture, were processed following the same following steps: generation of a 3D geometry of the AAA, meshing and computational stress analysis using the finite element method. We used two different modelling scenarios to study the distribution of the stresses, a “wall” model without intraluminal thrombus (ILT) and a “thrombus” model with ILT. Results The average time between the pre-rupture and rupture CT scans was 44 days (22-97). The median of the maximum stresses applied to the wall between the pre-rupture and rupture states were 0.817 MPa (0.555-1.295) and 1.160 MPa (0.633-1.625) for the "wall" model; and 0.365 MPa (0.291-0.753) and 0.390 MPa (0.343-0.819) for the "thrombus" model. There was an agreement between the site of rupture and the location of maximum stress for only one patient, who was the only patient without ILT. Conclusion We observed a large variability of stress values at rupture sites between patients. The rupture threshold strongly varied between individuals depending on the intraluminal thrombus. The site of rupture did not correlate with the maximum stress except for one patient.

Objectives This is a first report of the safety and 1-year outcomes of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) using a novel foam-based conformable device, guided by intracardiac echocardiography (ICE). Background Limitations of current transcatheter LAAC devices include the need for precise coaxial delivery into the left atrial appendage (LAA), potential for traumatic implantation, incomplete LAA seal, and device-related thrombus. Methods The device (Conformal Left Atrial Appendage Seal, Conformal Medical Inc) is a self-expanding occluder consisting of a cylindrical nitinol endoskeleton with low-profile anchor barbs around the midpoint, covered with a porous foam cup. In a prospective single-center series, under conscious sedation, the device was delivered under fluoroscopic and ICE guidance. After positioning, a transesophageal echocardiography probe was placed to confirm ICE findings before device release. After closure, dual antiplatelet therapy was administered for 6 months. Follow-up imaging was planned for 45 days and 6 and 12 months. Results A total of 15 patients (age 71.3 ± 10.8 years, 33% men, CHA2DS2-VASc 4.1 ± 1.7, HAS-BLED 3.4 ± 1.4) underwent LAAC, 100% successfully. There were no procedure/device-related complications requiring intervention. Asymptomatic pericardial effusion occurred in 2 patients. The 45-day, 6-month, and 12-month follow-up imaging in 11, 9, and 13 patients, respectively, revealed adequate LAA seal (leak ≤5 mm) in all patients; device-related thrombus was detected in 1 patient at 6 months. Over 1-year follow-up, there were no ischemic strokes and 1 minor bleed. Nonprocedure-/device-related death occurred in 2 patients. Conclusions This first report indicates that LAAC with the conformable implant guided by ICE imaging is feasible with encouraging 1-year clinical outcomes. (The Conformal Prague Study; NCT04193826 )

BACKGROUND Ischemic stroke is a prevalent, devastating disease with high morbidity and mortality. Despite extensive research using animal models, significant gaps remain in understanding the pathological processes in human stroke. We previously developed a tissue bank to analyze the blood immediately proximal and distal to an intracranial thrombus in patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT03153683). Our goal for the present project was to evaluate the blood gas changes and acid/base balance during stroke and determine how vascular collateralization affects these changes. METHODS We analyzed the blood samples and computed tomography angiography collateral scores from the first 62 patients in the BACTRAC (Blood and Clot Thrombectomy Registry and Collaboration) registry. The bicarbonate, partial pressure of oxygen, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) values of the intracranial (distal) and systemic (proximal) arterial blood relative to the occlusive thrombus were analyzed. Analysis of the group differences in systemic and intracranial blood gas values was also performed. RESULTS The partial pressure of oxygen, pCO2, and bicarbonate levels were all significantly higher in the systemic blood than in the intracranial blood (P < 0.001 for all) at thrombectomy. Collateralization did not significantly affect the distal blood gas values. Compared with the female patients, the male patients had had higher systemic pCO2 values (39.8 vs. 36.6 mm Hg; P = 0.0065) and lower systemic and intracranial pH values (7.351 vs. 7.392; P = 0.0047). CONCLUSIONS The arterial blood gases differed immediately proximal and distal to thrombi in large vessel occlusive stroke. Although vascular collateralization did not appear to affect the blood gas changes, some blood gas values differed between men and women. The changes in bicarbonate and pCO2 suggested a compensatory acid-base process occurring at the time of infarction.

BACKGROUND: We previously reported that to-and-fro blood movement near the pulmonary vein stump was particularly prominent after left upper lobectomy compared with other lobectomy, which may be the cause of the high susceptibility of pulmonary vein thrombus after left upper lobectomy. The aim of the present study was to compare the hemodynamics in patients who developed pulmonary vein thrombus after left upper lobectomy with those in patients who did not develop pulmonary vein thrombus using four-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging (4D MRI). METHODS: This was a retrospective evaluation of a prospectively collected clinical and radiological database of 37 patients who underwent 4D MRI 7 days after left upper lobectomy for lung cancer (n=37). We obtained two parameters by 4D MRI: the grade of to-and-fro blood movement and the flow energy loss around the pulmonary vein stump. The length of the pulmonary vein stump, a known risk factor for pulmonary vein thrombus, was also measured. RESULTS: According to a scatterplot of the grade of to-and-fro blood movement versus the flow energy loss, patients with pulmonary vein thrombus (n=15) were concentrated in an area which appears to be a ‘dangerous’ hemodynamic condition. There were few patients without pulmonary vein thrombus in this ‘dangerous’ area, except for one who unfortunately developed delayed pulmonary vein thrombus and cerebral infarction. We proposed a formula using the 4D MRI-derived parameters based on a stepwise multiple regression analysis that was more closely associated with the development of pulmonary vein thrombus than the length of the pulmonary vein stump (area under the receiver operating characteristics curve: 0.918 vs. 0.705, P=0.0500). CONCLUSIONS: We proposed the existence of a ‘dangerous’ hemodynamic condition responsible for pulmonary vein thrombus formation. 4D MRI before the development of pulmonary vein thrombus may help identify patients requiring preventive therapy against pulmonary vein thrombus and subsequent thromboembolic complications.

Unrestrained activation of the complement system till the terminal products, C5a and C5b-9, plays a pathogenetic role in acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. In endothelial cells, complement hyperactivation may translate into cell dysfunction, favoring thrombus formation. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the C5a/C5aR1 axis as opposed to C5b-9 in inducing endothelial dysfunction and loss of antithrombogenic properties. In vitro and ex vivo assays with serum from patients with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), a prototype rare disease of complement-mediated microvascular thrombosis due to genetically determined alternative pathway dysregulation, and cultured microvascular endothelial cells, demonstrated that the C5a/C5aR1 axis is a key player in endothelial thromboresistance loss. C5a added to normal human serum fully recapitulated the prothrombotic effects of aHUS serum. Mechanistic studies showed that C5a caused RalA-mediated exocytosis of von Willebrand factor (vWF) and P-selectin from Weibel-Palade bodies, which favored further vWF binding on the endothelium and platelet adhesion and aggregation. In patients with severe COVID-19 who suffered from acute activation of complement triggered by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, we found the same C5a-dependent pathogenic mechanisms. These results highlight C5a/C5aR1 as a common prothrombogenic effector spanning from genetic rare diseases to viral infections, and it may have clinical implications. Selective C5a/C5aR1 blockade could have advantages over C5 inhibition because the former preserves the formation of C5b-9, which is critical for controlling bacterial infections that often develop as comorbidities in severely ill patients. The ACCESS trial registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02464891 accounts for the results related to aHUS patients treated with CCX168.

Pseudoaneurysm of the mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa is a rare and potentially deadly aberrance of the cardiac architecture, with few reported pediatric cases. Complications can include rupture into the pericardium, ongoing infective endocarditis, arrhythmias, valvular dysfunction, thrombus formation, and compression of the coronary arteries. Although there have been cases which have gone solely with surveillance, the majority of these cases will have surgical intervention to reduce the risk of complications. We present a case in a pediatric patient with a history of bicuspid aortic valve, who presented with recurrent fevers after a dental procedure despite treatment with antibiotics. Infective endocarditis was suspected based on clinical exam, and imaging revealed pseudoaneurysm of the mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa. The patient was treated with surgical resection and homograft replacement.

Background Luminal narrowing, suspected secondary to thrombus, occurs within stent grafts at an unclear incidence after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). The significance of this phenomenon has not been determined, nor have the risk factors for development of intragraft luminal narrowing. Small graft diameter is hypothesized to be a risk factor for the development of ingraft stenosis. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed of a multicenter healthcare system including all patients who underwent TEVAR between July 2011 and July 2019 with at least 1 year of subsequently available surveillance contrast-enhanced computed tomography imaging. Standard demographic, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables were collected. Measurements were obtained via direct off-line images from computed tomography scans. Patent intragraft diameters were compared with baseline and interval change values were normalized to time to follow-up. The primary outcome measure was annual rate of intragraft luminal narrowing. Results There were 208 patients who met the inclusion criteria (94 women, 114 men) with a median follow-up of 822 days. The mean annual rate of percent intragraft diameter reduction was 10.5 ± 7.7% for women and 7.6 ± 5.6% for men (P = .0026). Multivariate analysis demonstrated female gender (P = .0283), preoperative diagnosis of hypertension (P = .0449), and need for coverage of the left subclavian artery (P = .0328) were all significant predictors of intragraft luminal narrowing. Small aortic diameters were not found to be associated independently with ingraft luminal narrowing nor was the concomitant use of antiplatelet or anticoagulation medications. Significant amounts of ingraft luminal narrowing, defined as a greater than 20% intragraft diameter decrease, were associated with an increased need for any reintervention, including for malperfusion, endoleak, and symptomatic aneurysm (P = .0249). Kaplan-Meier estimates demonstrated a significant gender-associated difference in high rates of intragraft luminal narrowing (P = .00189). Conclusions In this analysis, female gender is shown to be a significant nonmodifiable risk factor for intragraft luminal narrowing after TEVAR. The development of this phenomenon is not benign; as such, these findings were associated with an increased need for reintervention. This finding may be attributable to differences in aortic compliance or gender-associated differences in coagulation pathways and merits further investigation. Surveillance after thoracic stent grafting must account for patient-specific variations in complication risk.

Ginseng has been widely studied due to its various therapeutic properties on various diseases such as cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cardiovascular disease has been canonically known to be caused by high levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in the bloodstream, in addition to the impaired vasodilatory effects of cholesterol. However, current research on CVD has revealed a cascade of mechanisms involving a series of events that contribute to the progression of CVD. Although this has been elucidated and summarized in previous studies the detailed correlation between platelet aggregation and innate immunity that plays an important role in CVD progression has not been thoroughly summarized. Furthermore, immune cell subtypes also contribute to the progression of plaque formation in the subendothelial layer. Thrombus formation and the coagulation cascade also have a vital role in the progression of atherosclerosis. Hence, in this mini review we aim to elucidate, summarize, and propose the potent therapeutic effect of ginseng on CVD, mainly on platelet aggregation, plaque formation, and thrombus formation., Graphical abstract Image 1

PURPOSE The purpose of the current study was to clarify the blood flow pattern in the left atrium (LA), potentially causing the formation of thrombosis after left upper lobectomy (LUL). The blood flow in the LA was evaluated and compared between LUL patients with and without thrombosis. For the evaluation, we applied highly accelerated 4D flow MRI with dual-velocity encoding (VENC) scheme, which was expected to be able to capture slow flow components in the LA accurately. METHODS Eight volunteers and 18 patients subjected to LUL underwent dual-VENC 4D Flow MRI. Eight patients had a history of thrombosis. We measured the blood flow velocity and stasis ratio (proportion in the volume that did not exceed 10 cm/s in any cardiac phase) in the LA and left superior pulmonary vein (LSPV) stump. For visual assessment, the presence of each collision of the blood flow from pulmonary veins and vortex flow in the LA were evaluated. Each acquired value was compared between healthy participants and LUL patients, and in LUL patients with and without thrombosis. RESULTS In LUL patients, blood flow velocity near the inflow part of the left superior pulmonary vein (Lt Upp) and mean velocity in the LA were lower, and stasis ratio in the LA was higher compared with healthy volunteers (Lt Upp 9.10 ± 3.09 vs.13.23 ± 14.19 cm/s, mean velocity in the LA 9.81 ± 2.49 vs. 11.40 ± 1.15 cm/s, and stasis ratio 25.28 ± 18.64 vs. 4.71 ± 3.03%, P = 0.008, 0.037, and < 0.001). There was no significant difference in any quantification values between LUL patients with and without thrombosis. For visual assessment, the thrombus formation was associated with no collision pattern (62.5% vs. 10%, P = 0.019) and not with vortex flow pattern (50% vs. 30%, P = 0.751). CONCLUSION The net blood flow velocity was not associated with the thrombus formation. In contrast, a specific blood flow pattern, the absence of blood flow collision from pulmonary veins, correlates to the thrombus formation in the LA.

Pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) is the main treatment for chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). Postoperative unfractionated heparin dosing can be monitored by activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) or by anti-factor Xa activity (anti-Xa). In pseudo heparin resistance, APTT response to heparin is blunted due to elevated Factor VIII (FVIII) which can underestimate anticoagulation. We examined possible pseudo heparin resistance after PEA and assessed the impact of FVIII. APTT response to heparin before and after operation was determined in 13 PEA patients anticoagulated with unfractionated heparin. APTT and anti-Xa concordance was analyzed from paired postoperative samples, and antithrombin, fibrinogen and FVIII levels were measured. Single-cell RNA sequencing was used to characterize FVIII gene expression in PEA specimens of 5 patients. APTT response to heparin was blunted after PEA. APTT and anti-Xa were discordant in 36% of postoperative samples and most common discordant patterns were subtherapeutic APTT with therapeutic (16%) or supratherapeutic (11%) anti-Xa. Overall, APTT underestimated anticoagulation relative to anti-Xa in one-third of the samples. FVIII levels were elevated before surgery, increased substantially 1 and 3 days (median 4.32 IU/mL) after PEA, and were higher in discordant than concordant samples. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed FVIII gene expression in PEA specimen endothelial cells. Pseudo heparin resistance is common after PEA likely due to highly elevated postoperative FVIII levels indicating that anti-Xa reflects postoperative heparinization better than APTT in these patients. FVIII production by the pulmonary artery endothelium may participate in local prothrombotic processes important for CTEPH pathogenesis.

Background/objective: We investigated the efficacy of combined pigtail catheter crushing and AngioJet mechanical aspiration of thrombi in the treatment of acute iliofemoral deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Methods: Eighty-two patients with acute iliofemoral DVT were retrospectively divided into a pigtail catheter + AngioJet group (group A, 42 cases) and an AngioJet-only group (group B, 40 cases). The difference in the circumference of the healthy limbs before and after treatment, immediate thrombus clearance rate in the lower limbs, recannalization percentage of venous lumen, and duration of postoperative hematuria were compared to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the combination method. Results: The technical success rate was 100%, no serious bleeding complications occurred, lower extremity symptoms were effectively alleviated, and post-treatment recannalization percentage of venous lumen were similarly high in both groups. Group A fared significantly better than group B in immediate thrombus clearance (P

Blood-contacting medical implants made of Nitinol and other titanium alloys, such as neurovascular flow diverters and peripheral stents, have the disadvantage of being highly thrombogenic. This makes the use of systemic (dual) anti-platelet / anticoagulant therapies inevitable with related risks of device thrombosis, bleeding and other complications. Meeting the urgent clinical demand for a less thrombogenic Nitinol surface, we describe here a simple treatment of standard, commercially available Nitinol that renders its surface ultra-hydrophilic and functionalized with phosphate ions. The efficacy of this treatment was assessed by comparing standard and surface-treated Nitinol disks and braids, equivalent to flow diverters. Static and dynamic (Chandler loop) blood incubation tests showed a drastic reduction of thrombus formation on treated devices. Surface chemistry and proteomic analysis indicated a key role of phosphate and calcium ions in steering blood protein adsorption and avoiding coagulation cascade activation and platelet adhesion. A good endothelialization of the surface confirmed the biocompatibility of the treated surface. Statement of significance : Titanium alloys such as Nitinol are biocompatible and show favorable mechanical properties, which led to their widespread use in medical implants. However, in contact with blood their surface triggers the activation of the intrinsic coagulation cascade, which may result in catastrophic thrombotic events.; The presented results showed that a phosphate functionalization of the titanium oxide surface suppresses the activation of both coagulation cascade and platelets, avoiding the subsequent formation of a blood clot. This novel approach has therefore a great potential for mitigating the risks associated to either thrombosis or bleeding complications (due to systemic anticoagulation) in patients with cardiovascular implants.

Minimally invasive interventional embolization has tremendous advantages over conventional surgery in the treatment of vascular diseases and malignant tumors. Particularly, liquid embolic agents have garnered much attention owing to their properties of deep vascular penetration and full occlusion of vasculature independent of thrombus formation, which relies on the patient's coagulation system. Despite their drawbacks, traditional liquid embolic agents, such as lipiodol, N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate, and Onyx, have benefited numerous patients. The original liquid embolic agents have been modified and optimized, and novel liquid embolic agents have also been developed using different strategies and mechanisms. This minireview provides a brief overview of liquid embolic agents, including approved and potential ones. Challenges, prospects, and rational design guidelines are also discussed. This review may spark interest in liquid embolic agents and open new avenues for the smart design of improved embolic agents in the development of personalized and precision medicine.

Thrombus formation is a feared complication following bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt (BCPS). We aimed to investigate the effect of thrombus formation on outcome. BCPS was performed in 525 patients at our center between 1998 and 2018. The impacts of thrombus formation on survival and probability of Fontan completion were analyzed, and risk factors for thrombus formation were examined. Thrombus formation occurred in 30 patients (5.7%). Compared with the remaining 495 patients, there was no significant difference in the median age at BCPS (4.9 vs 4.7 months; P = 0.587). However, unbalanced atrioventricular septal defects (17 vs 5%; P = 0.008) and preoperative ventricular dysfunction (23.3 vs 8%; P = 0.004) were more frequent in patients who developed a thrombus. Thrombolytic therapy was performed in all patients and surgical thrombus removal was required in 13 patients. In-hospital mortality was higher in patients with thrombus (30.0 vs 2.2%; P0.001). Of 505 hospital survivors, an estimated survival at 1 year after hospital discharge following BCPS was 84.4% (95% CI, 76.1-92.7%) in patients with thrombus and 96.8% (95% CI, 96.0-97.6%) in those without (P0.001). Cumulative incidence of Fontan completion at 3 years after BCPS was 52.8% (95% CI, 30.3-75.2%) in patients with thrombus and 90.1% (95% CI, 87.2-92.9%) in those without (P = 0.004). Higher left atrial pressure (OR = 1.165; P = 0.029) and longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR = 1.013, P = 0.001) at BCPS were independent risk factors for thrombus formation after BCPS. Thrombus formation after BCPS poses a significant risk for survival and Fontan completion. Preoperative higher left atrial pressure and longer cardiopulmonary bypass time are significant risk factors.

BACKGROUND: An atrial septal occluder (ASO) represents a major obstacle to the widespread adoption of atrial fibrillation (AF) catheter ablation in patients with prior atrial septal defect (ASD) closure. AIMS: The aim of this study was to describe the “sequential technique” of transseptal puncture (TSP) in AF patients with ASO. METHODS: Sixty-four drug-refractory AF patients with ASO who underwent catheter ablation in our centre from September 2007 to March 2020 were enrolled. RESULTS: Puncture through the native septum was achieved in 29 patients (Group A) and through the device in 35 patients (Group B). The mean diameter of the occluder was significantly larger in Group B than in Group A (31.6±4.6 mm vs 22.8±3.5 mm, p

Background Histologic analyses of deep vein thrombi (DVTs) have used autopsy samples and animal models. To the best of our knowledge, no previous study has reported on thrombus composition after percutaneous mechanical extraction. Because elements of chronicity and organization render thrombus resistant to anticoagulation and thrombolysis, a better understanding of clot evolution could inform therapy. Methods We performed a histologic evaluation of DVTs from consecutive patients who had undergone mechanical thrombectomy for extensive iliofemoral DVTs using the Clottriever/Flowtriever device (Inari Medical, Irvine, Calif). The DVTs were scored using a semiquantitative method according to the degree of fibrosis (collagen deposition on trichrome staining) and organization (endothelial growth with capillaries and fibroblastic penetration). Results Twenty-three specimens were available for analysis, with 20 presenting as acute DVT (≤14 days from symptom onset). Of the 23 patients, 11 (48%) had had >5% fibrosis (ie, collagen deposition) and 14 (61%) had had >5% organization (ie, endothelial growth, capillaries, fibroblasts). Four patients with acute DVT had had ≥25% organized thrombus and two had had ≥25% collagen deposition. Of the 20 patients with acute DVT, 40% had had >5% fibrosis and 55% had had >5% organization. The acuity of DVT did not correlate with the amount of fibrosis or organizing scores. Conclusions A large proportion of patients with acute DVT will have histologic elements of chronicity and fibrosis. A better understanding of the relationship between such elements and the response to anticoagulant agents and fibrinolytic drugs could inform our approach to therapy.

In the U.S., pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common cause of cardiovascular death. Right heart thrombus (RHT) occurs in approximately 4% of patients with PE, and when concurrent is associated with increased 30-day PE-related and all-cause mortality. The consensus on optimal management of acute massive or high-risk PE is unclear, and even less so for concurrent RHT. In this report, we review a successful multidisciplinary coordination of vacuum-assisted thrombectomy (VAT) of a complex pacemaker lead-associated RHT in a patient with concurrent acute PE and significant comorbidities, using the AngioVac system (Vortex Medical, Norwell, MA). VAT is a reasonable treatment option that should be considered particularly for patients who are poor surgical or thrombolytic candidates. Procedural success and patient outcomes can be further optimized through multidisciplinary collaboration such as with the Pulmonary Embolism Response Team (PERT) model.