A big floating thrombus in the common carotid artery

The management of the free-floating thrombus (FFT) is difficult, and it is unclear whether surgical or medical treatment is superior. The common carotid artery is rarely involved. An 80-year-old woman presented with right hand weakness and syncope. Ultrasound showed the presence of FFT in the left common carotid artery. A carotid endarterectomy with Dacron patch angioplasty was immediately performed without complications. In the presence of symptoms, the interventional management of FFT is advised. J Cardiovasc Med 2011, 12: 819-820