A simple surgical method for removing a large floating thrombus from the ascending aorta

We report the successful surgical removal of a large floating thrombus from the ascending aorta causing systemic embolization. It was diagnosed by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), CT scan, aortography and Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMR). The free-floating, highly embolic source 2 cm distal to the left coronary sinus was removed from the ascending aorta using a simple surgical technique. Isolated cerebral perfusion with circulatory arrest on normothermia provided a simple and safe access to the thrombus attached to a ruptured atherosclerotic plaque. The patient was discharged on the 7 th postoperative day after an uneventful recovery.