Patent foramen ovale management

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a hole between the left and right atria of the heart that usually, but not always, closes before birth. It is found in an increased proportion (~50%) of patients with cryptogenic stroke, especially those aged under 55.

Younger patients with a cortical infarct and fewer traditional vascular risk factors (diabetes, hypertension, smoking, previous stroke/TIA) have a greater likelihood that their stroke was due to the PFO.

Interventions include medical antiplatelet or anticoagulation therapy, or percutaneous closure.

For current research and evidence-based recommendations see our Clinical Guidelines.