Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 7, 2026

Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale PFO: An Intervention Sequence
Published on: December 23, 2022
Bilateral Pulmonary Embolism With Bi-atrial Cardiac Thrombi Entrapped in a Patent Foramen Ovale
Denise Mourad1, Fahd E Mohamed2, Yashi Ballal2
1Central Michigan University, Internal Medicine, Saginaw, MI, USA.
Abstract:
Bi-atrial thrombi with bilateral pulmonary embolism (PE) through a patent foramen ovale (PFO) is rare and life-threatening, requiring urgent management due to embolization risk. We present a 53-year-old female with left lower extremity extensive deep vein thrombosis (DVT), bilateral PE, and bi-atrial thrombi straddling a PFO. She underwent thrombectomy, PFO closure, and pulmonary embolectomy but later experienced recurrent DVT and PE. Anticoagulation was limited due to bleeding risk given a recent neurosurgery. Literature lacks clear guidelines for managing such cases necessitating individualized treatment. This case highlights the complexity of bi-atrial thrombi with PFO and the need for further research to optimize management strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Overview of Pulmonary Circulation
The process begins with the right ventricle of the heart pumping deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary trunk. This large vessel extends about 5 centimeters before splitting into the left and right pulmonary arteries. These arteries...

