Paradoxical Embolus Stuck in a Patent Foramen Ovale

In-hospital mortality rate of an embolus in transit is as high as 44.7%. In some cases, a paradoxical embolus can get stuck in a patent foramen ovale. Because of the high mortality rate, this condition should be considered as an emergency case. Echocardiography has been established as the gold standard method for the diagnosis. A negative echocardiography, however, does not rule out an embolus in transit. To rule out pulmonary embolisms, a computed tomography scan of the chest should also be performed. A cardiothoracic surgeon should be consulted immediately upon diagnosis of an embolus in transit. There is no medical consensus for the treatment of the above mentioned condition, however, surgical treatment appears to be the best approach in patients who are surgical candidates.