Impending paradoxical embolism from atrial thrombus: correct diagnosis by transesophageal echocardiography and prevention by surgery

J Am Coll Cardiol. 1985 Apr;5(4):1002-4. doi: 10.1016/s0735-1097(85)80449-6.

Abstract

During recovery from a posterolateral myocardial infarction, a 56 year old patient developed signs of deep vein thrombophlebitis and subsequently of pulmonary embolism. After conventional echocardiography showed masses in both atria, transesophageal two-dimensional echocardiography clearly revealed an elongated mass overriding an atrial septal defect. Impending paradoxical embolism was confirmed at surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Echocardiography* / methods
  • Embolism / diagnosis
  • Embolism / etiology
  • Embolism / prevention & control*
  • Heart Atria
  • Heart Septal Defects, Atrial / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Thrombophlebitis / complications
  • Thrombosis / complications*
  • Thrombosis / surgery