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[Patent foramen ovale and stroke]

J M Meier1, A Delabays, G Girod

  • 1Service de cardiologie, Centre hospitalier universitaire vaudois, Lausanne, Suisse. Jean-Marc.Meier@chuv.hospvd.ch

Archives Des Maladies Du Coeur Et Des Vaisseaux
|July 13, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) affects a quarter of adults and is linked to cryptogenic strokes in over 40% of patients under 60. Early identification and multidisciplinary treatment of PFO can lead to promising long-term outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Medical Diagnostics

Context:

  • Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common cardiac anomaly, present in approximately 25% of the adult population.
  • PFO is frequently observed in younger patients (<60 years) experiencing cryptogenic ischemic stroke, occurring in over 40% of this demographic.
  • Interatrial septal aneurysm can coexist with PFO, though less common.

Purpose:

  • To identify clinical and echocardiographic parameters for stratifying risk in patients with cryptogenic stroke.
  • To evaluate the efficacy of a multidisciplinary approach in managing patients with PFO and cryptogenic stroke.
  • To assess the long-term results of correcting cardiac anomalies in selected high-risk patients.

Summary:

  • Clinical and echocardiographic findings can identify patients at high risk for recurrent cryptogenic stroke, even with aspirin therapy.
  • A significant association exists between PFO and cryptogenic ischemic stroke in patients under 60.
  • A multidisciplinary strategy involving correction of the cardiac anomaly shows promising long-term results for selected patients.

Impact:

  • Improved risk stratification for cryptogenic stroke recurrence.
  • Enhanced understanding of the role of PFO in younger stroke patients.
  • Evidence supporting interventional closure of PFO in specific high-risk populations.
  • Potential for improved long-term prognosis and reduced stroke recurrence through targeted treatment.

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