# Failure of Direct Oral Anticoagulation in Preventing Left Ventricular Thrombus Progression After Myocardial Infarction: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A patient developed a growing heart blood clot despite using a modern anticoagulant, showing that these drugs may not always work as expected after a heart attack.

## Contribution

Highlights the rare but possible failure of direct oral anticoagulants in preventing heart blood clot progression after a heart attack.

## Key findings

- A basal left ventricular thrombus progressed despite triple antithrombotic therapy including Apixaban.
- LVT can develop in non-apical segments even with mild to moderate systolic impairment.
- Short-term imaging is necessary to monitor anticoagulant effectiveness in such cases.

## Abstract

Background and Clinical Significance: Left ventricular thrombus formation after acute coronary syndrome represents a severe complication. Comprehensive echocardiographic assessment of the entire ventricle is essential, as regional wall motion abnormalities predispose to thrombus development. Although vitamin K antagonists have traditionally been the cornerstone of therapy, the convenience of direct oral anticoagulants has made them increasingly popular. However, the paucity of prospective data raises concerns regarding their general interchangeability. Case Presentation: We present a case of a basal left ventricular thrombus that rapidly progressed in size despite triple antithrombotic therapy including Apixaban. Conclusions: Following ACS, regional LV dysfunction predisposes to LVT formation—even in patients with only mild to moderate systolic impairment or non-apical akinesia. Although rare, LVT may also develop in basal and mid-ventricular segments. Anticoagulant selection should remain individualized, and short-term follow-up imaging is necessary to monitor therapeutic response.