Paradoxical embolism and pulmonary embolism in a patient with patent foramen ovale: a case report

Rev Port Cir Cardiotorac Vasc. 2012 Jan-Mar;19(1):45-6.

Abstract

Paradoxical embolism may occur in patients with acute pulmonary thromboembolism, when a patent foramen ovale(PFO) coexists with a right to left shunt associated to pulmonary hypertension. We presented the case of a 83 year old woman with paradoxical embolism to both legs, in the setting of pulmonary embolism. She was successfully treated with peripheral thrombectomy and anticoagulation. Patent foramen ovale closure wasn't performed because of its small size and right to left shunt absence after clinical stability.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Embolism, Paradoxical / pathology
  • Embolism, Paradoxical / therapy*
  • Female
  • Foramen Ovale, Patent / pathology
  • Foramen Ovale, Patent / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Pulmonary Embolism / pathology
  • Pulmonary Embolism / therapy*
  • Thrombectomy / methods

Substances

  • Anticoagulants