A case of a large Chiari network mimicking a right atrial thrombus

Abstract

The Chiari network is described as a reticulated network of fibers connected to the Eustachian valve identified as the embryological remnant of the right valve of the sinus venosus. It is an incidental finding without any significant pathophysiological consequences. However, the presence of the Chiari network in the right atrium obliges the physician to differentiate from other right atrial pathologies. We present a case of a large Chiari network mimicking a right atrial thrombus with incidental finding in a 76-year-old man undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery.

Keywords

• atrial thrombus
• chiari network
• eustachian valve
• tumor.