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Updated: Aug 16, 2026
07:44
A Porcine Model of Acute Autologous Pulmonary Embolism
Published on: September 6, 2024
The Eustachian valve in pulmonary embolism: rescue or perilous?
Jan L C De Keyser1, Marie-Christine Herregods, Karl Dujardin
1University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Cardiology Department, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium. jan.dekeyser@uz.kuleuven.ac.be
Summary
The Eustachian valve can be a double-edged sword. While it may prevent pulmonary embolism by trapping a blood clot, it can also cause systemic embolisms when combined with a patent foramen ovale.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Anatomy
Background:
- The Eustachian valve is an often-overlooked remnant of fetal circulation located at the junction of the inferior vena cava and the right atrium.
- Its anatomical variations and clinical significance, particularly in relation to thromboembolic events, are not fully understood.
Observation:
- This case highlights a unique scenario where the Eustachian valve played a dual role in the fate of a thrombus.
- The valve's structure tethered a thrombus, preventing its passage into the pulmonary artery.
Findings:
- Despite preventing a pulmonary embolism, the presence of a patent foramen ovale redirected the tethered thrombus towards the left atrium.
- This redirection created a significant risk for systemic embolism, demonstrating a complex interplay between cardiac structures.
Implications:
- The Eustachian valve's role in thromboembolism is context-dependent and can be influenced by other cardiac anomalies.
- Understanding these anatomical relationships is crucial for accurate risk assessment and management of embolic events.
- Further research into the Eustachian valve's function in various clinical settings is warranted.
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Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations: