Aortic Thrombus Associated with LV Impella Device and Bronchial Blocker Placement
[...]. Aortic Thrombus Associated with LV Impella Device and Bronchial Blocker Placement. CTICases. Published September 16, 2021. https://str-case-explorer.pages.dev/c/egyzs
Imaging findings
Radiographs show a left ventricular Impella device, an ECMO cannula, and an "Easy Blocker" bronchial blocker balloon inflated in the left main bronchus (causing left lung collapse/opacification). Chest CT confirms the balloon inflated in the left main bronchus and demonstrates thrombi forming in the ascending aorta directly in contact/contiguity with the Impella catheter.
Key takeaways
Indwelling mechanical circulatory support devices like the Impella can act as a nidus for thrombus formation within the aorta due to stasis and surface contact, which can be visualized on CT. Bronchial blockers (e.g., Easy Blocker) are used for single-lung ventilation and appear on radiographs as dual-balloon or single-balloon catheters positioned within a main bronchus.
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