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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
07:41
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure
Published on: February 8, 2022
Double atrial septum with persistent interatrial space and transient ischaemic attack
H Seyfert1, V Bohlscheid, B Bauer
1Department of Cardiology, Dietrich Bonhoeffer Hospital, Neubrandenburg, Germany. 060320096679-0001@t-online.de
Summary
This study details echocardiographic findings in a transient ischemic attack patient, revealing a double atrial septum and persistent interatrial space as a potential thrombus source. A direct communication between the left atrium and this space was identified, excluding a patent foramen ovale.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Imaging
- Anatomy
Background:
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA) necessitates identifying embolic sources.
- Atrial septum abnormalities can be associated with cerebrovascular events.
Observation:
- Echocardiography revealed a patient with a double atrial septum and a persistent interatrial space.
- This anatomical variation was suspected as a potential source of thrombus formation.
Findings:
- A patent foramen ovale was definitively excluded through imaging.
- A direct communication pathway between the left atrium and the persistent interatrial space was demonstrated.
Implications:
- This case highlights rare atrial septal variations as potential embolic sources in TIA.
- Accurate echocardiographic assessment is crucial for diagnosing complex cardiac anatomy.
- Understanding these variations can refine stroke risk stratification and management strategies.
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