Key result
Low-angle PFO is linked to paradoxical embolism via direct IVC to LA blood flow.
Why the study?
Identification of high-risk patent foramen ovale morphologies, such as low-angle PFO associated with stroke and paradoxical embolism, is important.
Low-angle PFO morphology allows direct venous blood flow from the IVC to the LA, providing a mechanistic explanation for its association with paradoxical embolism and stroke.
May refine PFO stroke risk assessment in select cases; leaves open prospective validation of morphology-specific management.
•Identification of high-risk PFO associated with stroke is important.•Low-angle PFO is reported to be one of the high-risk PFO morphologies.•Low-angle PFO can allow venous blood to flow directly from the IVC to the LA.•The case showed direct blood flow from the IVC to LA through the low-angle PFO.
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Nakayama et al. (2021) studied this question. Low-angle patent foramen ovale is a high-risk morphology associated with paradoxical embolism that allows direct venous blood flow from the inferior vena cava to the left atrium.
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