Interatrial septum as a possible source of thromboembolic events

Abstract

The prompt identification of the type and source of stroke is critical for clinical management, prevention, and treatment. Approximately 25% of ischemic strokes are from the cardioembolic source, and 15–40% of all ischemic strokes are cryptogenic (where a definitive cause is not identified, despite extensive evaluation). The interatrial septum may be associated with thromboembolic events in many mechanisms. Essential strategies to prevent the recurrence of this event are to understand the multidirectional role of the interatrial septum as a source of thromboembolism and the cause of ischemic stroke.The present study provides a detailed, up-to-date review of the human interatrial septum's morphological aspects that play a significant role in stroke etiology. The study discussed the most important anatomical entities within the interatrial septum region such as oval fossa, a patent foramen ovale (PFO), atrial septal pouch, and atrial septal aneurysm.

Keywords

• Interatrial septum
• Patent foramen ovale
• Oval fossa
• Atrial septal pouch
• Atrial septal aneurysm
• Paradoxical embolism