The right atrial appendage lies in which relation to the fossa ovalis?

The right atrial appendage lies in which relation to the fossa ovalis?

• A. Anteriorly and superiorly to the fossa ovalis
• B. Posteriorly to the fossa ovalis
• C. Inferiorly to the fossa ovalis
• D. At the same level as the fossa ovalis

Answer: (A)

Think of the fossa ovalis as a landmark on the interatrial septum forming part of the posterior wall of the right atrium. The right atrial appendage is a small pouch that projects from the anterior wall of the right atrium. Because it comes from the front wall, the appendage sits in front of and above the location of the fossa ovalis. This anterior and superior placement relative to the fossa ovalis is why the correct description is that the right atrial appendage lies anteriorly and superiorly to the fossa ovalis.

Think of the fossa ovalis as a landmark on the interatrial septum forming part of the posterior wall of the right atrium. The right atrial appendage is a small pouch that projects from the anterior wall of the right atrium. Because it comes from the front wall, the appendage sits in front of and above the location of the fossa ovalis. This anterior and superior placement relative to the fossa ovalis is why the correct description is that the right atrial appendage lies anteriorly and superiorly to the fossa ovalis.