Patent Foramen Ovale

Approximately 25% of the population has a tiny defect in the atrial septum known as a patent foramen ovale. While the vast majority of patients with a PFO have no symptoms, it is recognized that a PFO is sometimes seen in patients with unexplained stroke. The optimal treatment for these patients is controversial but over the past two years, several multicenter studies have shown a reduction in recurrent stroke following device closure of the PFO compared with conventional medical therapy. Our Center has been a pioneer in the treatment of stroke related PFO.