CVS Practice Test

The statement regarding the fossa ovalis as being probe patent in a percentage of adults is accurate because the fossa ovalis is a depression in the interatrial septum that represents the site where the foramen ovale was located in the fetal heart. In most individuals, this opening closes shortly after birth, creating the fossa ovalis. However, in some cases, it may remain partially open or "probe patent," which means that if a probe like a catheter were to be introduced, it could pass through this area, indicating a small opening between the atria. This is a recognized anatomical variant and can have clinical implications, particularly if it is associated with conditions such as a patent foramen ovale that could allow paradoxical embolism or other circulatory issues.

The other statements do not accurately describe the fossa ovalis. It is not a functional valve, as it does not actively control blood flow but is rather a remnant of fetal circulation. Also, the fossa ovalis is not a remnant of the ductus arteriosus, which connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta in the fetus; that structure closes and becomes the ligamentum arteriosum after birth. Lastly, while found in all individuals post