Patent Foramen Ovale Closure

A Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is a type of hole between the upper chambers of the heart. 10-20% of adults have a PFO. Generally a PFO does not cause any problems. In some it may however be a risk factor for stroke or may be an important trigger for migraine headaches. Sometimes it may be advisable to close a PFO. These days PFO can be closed without the need for surgery, using a small umbrella-like device. The closure device is passed to the heart using a small tube (catheter) inserted in a peripheral vein. PFO closure is done in the cardiac catheterization laboratory where special x-ray and ultrasound equipment are used to guide placement of the closure device. An occluder used to close PFOs is a small umbrella-like device that can be compressed inside a small tube (catheter), placed at the desired location in the heart, and then opened. The size of the occluder chosen is based on the individual patient anatomy. This closure method is very safe and effective. Patients typically go home the next day and are back to all their usual activities in a few days. This procedure is routinely performed by Krannert cardiologists.