A persistent Eustachian valve can cause a number of problems.
Synonym: valve of the inferior vena cava
During fetal development the valve of the inferior vena cava directs oxygenated blood from the inferior vena cava towards the foramen ovale. After birth it has no specific function and usually regresses. Occasionally a remnant persists, often as a thin flap at the orifice of the inferior vena cava. If it large enough it can be seen on imaging studies.
Complications:
(1) endocarditis
(2) thrombosis
(3) interference with passage of a catheter along the inferior vena cava
(4) mistaken identity (thrombus, tumor, other)
(5) interference with blood return through the inferior vena cava
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