Value of real-time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography during patent foramen ovale closure: a case report

Although contrast injection during percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) has been used for assessing the adequacy of the procedure, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has an important role in both diagnosis and percutaneous closure of PFO. Three-dimensional (3D) TEE may have incremental value in PFO closure such that direct anatomic information about PFO can be obtained. More importantly, successful closure can be directly assessed via Real-time 3D TEE. This case report emphasizes the importance of Live 3D TEE usage during PFO closure in a 32-year-old male patient with two transient ischemic attacks and normal hematological tests.