Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2025

The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Large Mobile Left Ventricular Thrombi Formation in a 32-Year-Old Despite Direct Oral Anticoagulation With Dabigatran
Lukas Damian Weberling1,2, Henning Steen1, Norbert Frey1,2
1Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Pneumology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
Insights
Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) can cause large left ventricular thrombi despite adequate use. A young patient developed these clots and required surgical removal, later switching to phenprocoumon for anticoagulation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are standard treatments for preventing arterial and venous thrombosis.
- Ensuring adequate anticoagulation is crucial for patients on these medications.
Observation:
- A 32-year-old patient on long-term DOAC therapy developed two large left ventricular thrombi.
- The thrombi formed despite the patient adhering to the prescribed DOAC regimen.
Findings:
- The patient underwent successful surgical thrombectomy to remove the left ventricular thrombi.
- Post-surgery, anticoagulation was transitioned to phenprocoumon.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare complication of DOACs, suggesting potential risks even with appropriate dosing.
- Further research may be needed to understand the mechanisms and identify patients at higher risk for DOAC-induced thrombosis.
Abstract:
Direct oral anticoagulant agents (DOACs) are widely used in the treatment of arterial and venous thrombi. We report the case of a 32-year-old patient who was receiving permanent DOAC therapy. Despite adequate use, 2 large left ventricular thrombi developed. Surgical thrombectomy was performed. The patient recovered well and received anticoagulation with phenprocoumon thereafter. (Level of Difficulty: Beginner .).
Related Concept Videos
Anticoagulant Drugs: Vitamin K Antagonists and Direct Oral Anticoagulants
Warfarin, a prominent vitamin K antagonist family member, exerts its effect by inhibiting the enzyme VKORC1 (vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1). By hindering this enzyme, warfarin...
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Anticoagulant Drugs: Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

