These images illustrate the capability of transthoracic studies to confirm the presence of a patent foramen ovale in some patients. Intravenous echo contrast may also be useful.
Transesophageal echocardiography provides better resolution of the interatrial septum.
Short axis parasternal view of a narrow color flow jet in the right atrium. Subcostal image in the same patient that raises the question of atrial septal defect. The membrane of the fossa ovalis is thinner than the rest of the atrial septal wall - resulting in echocardiographic dropout that mimics a non restrictive atrial septal defect. Contrast echocardiography is also useful. The right cardiac chambers were not dilated.