Optimal Management of Spontaneous Aortic Thrombus Floating in the Ascending Aorta, from a Single Case Experience to a Literature Review

As spontaneous ascending aortic thrombi (AATs) are uncommon in modern clinical practice, despite the application of new technology and the widespread use of contrast-enhanced computer tomography during primary assessments in patients without underlying predisposing conditions, a thrombus floating in the ascending aorta is rarely discovered in a timely manner; moreover, the ascending tract represents an unusual site for thrombus formation. The clinical presentation of AATs is also often in the form of peripheral arterial embolization, which can cause a wide variety of symptoms, from stroke to limb ischemia, and thus delay correct diagnosis. Medical management is a risky strategy, while surgical treatment is usually challenging due to the risk of thrombus dislodgement and difficulties related to prior embolization complication management. In this study, faced with a peculiar case of embolic stroke in an otherwise healthy 71-year-old woman, we analyzed the status of knowledge on spontaneous ascending aortic thrombus treatments and outcomes. A multidisciplinary approach represents the best choice for defining a patient's timing of surgery and ensuring the management of complications. Sequential multistage treatment minimizes further complications and prevents worsening patient outcomes, leading to the best management for every possible clinical presentation. A less invasive surgical approach could lead to complete resolution of the pathology, avoiding further potentially lethal complications, facilitating postoperative management, avoiding delayed treatments, and resulting in better outcomes.