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Percutaneous PFO Closure in Paradoxical Embolism

Device closure of a patent foramen ovale after cryptogenic stroke to reduce recurrent stroke risk.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

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

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 Percutaneous PFO Closure in Paradoxical Embolism?

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a residual opening in the interatrial septum present in approximately one quarter of adults. It is asymptomatic in most, but in some patients it can cause cryptogenic stroke via paradoxical embolism.

In patients aged 18–60 with cryptogenic stroke in whom a thorough etiologic workup finds no other cause and high-risk PFO features are present (large shunt, atrial septal aneurysm), percutaneous device closure of the PFO is recommended.

The procedure does not require transseptal puncture; dedicated septal closure devices (e.g., Amplatzer PFO Occluder) are delivered via the femoral vein. Randomized trials have shown a significant reduction in stroke recurrence compared with medical therapy.

Symptoms

Prior cryptogenic stroke
Transient ischemic attack
Migraine with aura in selected cases
High-altitude decompression illness
Signs of paradoxical embolism
Unexplained hypoxemia
Platypnea-orthodeoxia syndrome

Risk Factors

Young-age cryptogenic stroke
Atrial septal aneurysm
Large right-to-left shunt
Tendency to deep vein thrombosis
Scuba diving
Thrombophilia
Prolonged immobilization

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Stroke or TIA at a young age
  • Recurrent neurologic events
  • Risk stratification after PFO detection
  • Stroke recurrence despite anticoagulation
  • Decompression illness
  • Platypnea-orthodeoxia syndrome

Treatment Methods

01
Detailed stroke etiology workup
02
Transesophageal echocardiography
03
Percutaneous PFO closure device
04
Long-term antiplatelet therapy
05
Anticoagulation in selected cases
06
Joint neurologist-cardiologist follow-up
07
Lifestyle modification

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.