Miraculous life-saving role of patent foramen ovale: a case report

Authors

  • Kirils Jeršovs Rīgas Stradiņš University, Faculty of Medicine, Riga, Latvia
  • Sofija Aveniņa Rīgas Stradiņš University, Faculty of Medicine, Riga, Latvia
  • Vladimirs Krutovs Rīgas Stradiņš University, Faculty of Medicine, Riga, Latvia
  • Artjoms Kaļiņins Clinical Diagnostics Center, Riga East University Hospital, Riga, Latvia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2454-2156.IntJSciRep20230697

Keywords:

PFO, Impending paradoxical embolism, Immobilization

Abstract

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a relatively uncommon anatomical variant that predisposes patients to several complications, such as atrial septal aneurysm, thromboembolism, stroke, platypnea-orthodeoxia, and paradoxical embolism. Despite this, in rare cases, PFO can be a life-saving factor. We present a 72-year-old man with a PFO and fulfilled Virchov’s triad after being stationary, dehydrated, and suffering from chronic venous insufficiency. A subsequent transesophageal echocardiogram revealed a large thrombus (approx. 20 cm in length) dwelling in the PFO in between both atria. In this case, PFO effectively saved the patient from such complications as pulmonary embolism and paradoxical embolism.

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Published

2023-03-18

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Section

Case Reports