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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
10:52
Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): An Intervention Sequence
Published on: December 23, 2022
Thrombus crossing through a patent foramen ovale
International Journal of Cardiology
|January 18, 2008
Summary
Paradoxical embolism through a patent foramen ovale (PFO) is rare. A case study shows a thrombus crossing a PFO, leading to arterial embolism despite anticoagulation therapy.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Paradoxical embolism, where a clot travels from venous to arterial circulation, is uncommon.
- Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is a potential pathway for paradoxical embolism.
- Thrombus passage through a PFO is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old woman presented with dyspnea and pleuritic chest pain.
- Deep vein thrombosis was confirmed in both lower extremities.
- Echocardiography revealed masses in both atria, with TEE showing a thrombus traversing an aneurysmatic interatrial septum via a PFO.
Findings:
- A large thrombus was visualized actively migrating through a patent foramen ovale.
- Despite anticoagulation therapy, the patient experienced a brachial artery embolism.
- Embolectomy confirmed the presence of a thrombus.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for significant embolic events from PFOs.
- It underscores the challenges in managing paradoxical embolism, even with anticoagulation.
- Further research into PFO management and thrombotic complications is warranted.
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