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Repeated thrombolysis in multiple episodes of obstructive thrombosis in prosthetic heart valves: a report of three cases and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY
Thrombolysis is an emerging method to open thrombosed prosthetic heart valves. However, its applicability and safety in multiple recurrent thrombotic episodes is unclear.


METHODS
Among 16 patients with thrombosed prosthetic valves treated with thrombolysis during a 33-month period, three patients (one mitral and two tricuspid) experienced four episodes each, and these were treated with repeated thrombolytic therapy. Data on patient demographics, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome are presented.


RESULTS
Thrombolysis was successful in 10/12 episodes (83%); there was delayed response in one episode (8%), and partial response in one episode (8%). There were no major complications. However, a fifth thrombotic episode occurred in two patients with tricuspid prostheses, mandating re-do surgery.


CONCLUSION
Thrombolysis in re-thrombosed prosthetic heart valves is feasible, highly successful and safe, and may therefore be used judiciously in selected patients who could not, or would not, undergo redo surgery. A high recurrence rate in the tricuspid position may implicate earlier surgical intervention, which should be individualized.