[Paradoxical embolism and thrombosis trapped in the foramen ovale. Role of transesophageal echocardiography].

The authors report a case of paradoxical embolism presenting with syncope and a transient cerebrovascular accident. A large thrombus was observed entrapped in the foramen ovale during transthoracic echocardiography and confirmed at transoesophageal echocardiography. Despite the recent cerebrovascular event surgery was successfully performed. This clinical situation, and a review of the literature illustrate the diagnostic value of transoesophageal echocardiography, the finding of an intra-atrial thrombus being a possible surgical indication when the clinical context is favourable.