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Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): An Intervention Sequence
10:52

Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): An Intervention Sequence

Published on: December 23, 2022

Migraine headache relief after transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale

Mark Reisman1, Ryan D Christofferson, Jill Jesurum

  • 1Cardiovascular Research, Swedish Medical Center.

Journal of the American College of Cardiology
|February 15, 2005
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) significantly reduces migraine frequency in patients with paradoxical embolism. This PFO treatment offers complete resolution or marked improvement for many patients experiencing migraines.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Vascular Medicine

Background:

  • Migraine headache prevalence is elevated in cryptogenic stroke patients with patent foramen ovale (PFO).
  • Previous research indicates PFO closure may alleviate migraine symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of transcatheter PFO closure on migraine frequency.
  • To assess migraine symptom changes in patients with paradoxical cerebral embolism post-PFO closure.

Main Methods:

  • 162 patients with paradoxical embolism underwent transcatheter PFO closure (2001-2003).
  • A one-year retrospective analysis compared migraine symptoms before and after PFO closure.

Main Results:

  • 35% of patients had active migraine; 68% experienced aura.
  • 56% of analyzed patients achieved complete migraine resolution; 14% had a significant reduction.
  • Mean monthly migraine episodes decreased by 80% post-PFO closure (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

  • Migraine headaches are more common in patients with paradoxical embolism.
  • Transcatheter PFO closure effectively resolves or significantly reduces migraine headache frequency in these patients.

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