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Editorial
. 2004 Nov;90(11):1245-7.
doi: 10.1136/hrt.2003.031500.

How should we assess patent foramen ovale?

C Seiler
Editorial

How should we assess patent foramen ovale?

C Seiler. Heart. 2004 Nov.
No abstract available

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Transoesophageal contrast echocardiography (TOE) for the detection of patent foramen ovale (PFO). (A) TOE long axis view (right side—cranial; left side—caudal) showing the left atrium (LA) and the aortic root free of ultrasound contrast medium as well as the right atrium (RA) filled with contrast bubbles. The image is taken close to the end of the Valsalva strain phase with the interatrial septum bulged towards the RA. (B) Identical TOE image plane as in all other panels (long axis view) taken immediately after release of the Valsalva strain phase: the interatrial septum (fossa ovalis region) now bulges towards the LA, thus indicating a pressure rise in the RA above that in the LA (PA, pulmonary artery). (C) Long axis view image obtained instantaneously after that in panel B revealing a shunt of contrast medium across a PFO from the right to the left atrium. (D) The shunt is much less pronounced on this next image (PFO grade 3). Washout of contrast medium in the RA is visible (arrow), which is caused by the inflow of contrast-free blood from the inferior vena cava.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

Comment on

References

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