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Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO)

Persistence of the fetal atrial septum opening that normally closes after birth.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO)?

During fetal life, the foramen ovale allows oxygenated blood from the placenta to flow from the right atrium to the left atrium. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) refers to persistent patency of this communication beyond infancy. It is found in roughly one quarter of adults and in most cases has no clinical significance.

Nevertheless, PFO can allow a venous thrombus to pass into the systemic circulation, manifesting as cryptogenic stroke, migraine with aura or decompression illness. It should be carefully evaluated particularly in patients younger than 55 with unexplained ischemic stroke.

Diagnosis is made by transthoracic echocardiography, agitated saline (bubble) contrast study and transesophageal echocardiography. In selected patients, percutaneous closure or medical anticoagulation reduces the risk of paradoxical embolism.

Symptoms

Asymptomatic in most patients
Unexplained ischemic stroke in young adults
Transient ischemic attacks
Migraine with aura
Dyspnea on exertion
Platypnea-orthodeoxia syndrome
Decompression illness in divers

Risk Factors

Cryptogenic stroke at a young age
Deep vein thrombosis or hypercoagulability
Associated atrial septal aneurysm
Frequent scuba diving
Migraine with aura
Prolonged immobilization
Family history of congenital heart disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Unexplained stroke at a young age
  • Frequent recurrent migraine with aura
  • Notable cyanosis on exertion
  • Suspected recurrent paradoxical embolism
  • Neurologic symptoms after diving

Treatment Methods

01
Confirmation with echocardiography and bubble test
02
Antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy in cryptogenic stroke
03
Percutaneous PFO closure in appropriately selected patients
04
Migraine management and neurology follow-up
05
Avoidance of high-risk diving activity
06
Regular cardiology and neurology review

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.