Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026
07:44
A Porcine Model of Acute Autologous Pulmonary Embolism
Published on: September 6, 2024
New aspects of paradoxical embolism
1Johann-Wolfgang-Goethe University Hospital Frankfurt, Germany.
VASA. Zeitschrift Fur Gefasskrankheiten
|February 2, 2011
Summary
Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is linked to cryptogenic stroke. Optimal therapy for stroke prevention in PFO patients remains under investigation, with ongoing studies to clarify treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Paradoxical emboli originate in the venous system, potentially causing stroke via cardiac or pulmonary shunts.
- A patent foramen ovale (PFO), present in ~20% of the population, is frequently implicated in these events.
- Cryptogenic stroke, stroke of unknown origin, is a significant clinical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the association between patent foramen ovale (PFO) and cryptogenic stroke.
- To explore the relationship between PFO, coagulation disorders, and stroke recurrence.
- To discuss diagnostic features, therapeutic modalities, and emerging insights into PFO closure for migraine.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of publications on PFO and stroke.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria and therapeutic interventions for PFO-related stroke.
- Inclusion of national and international guidelines and expert recommendations.
Main Results:
- PFO is a common finding in patients experiencing cryptogenic stroke.
- Recurrence rates of stroke in patients with PFO are a key concern.
- Evidence suggests potential benefits of PFO closure for associated migraine.
Conclusions:
- The optimal therapeutic strategy for preventing recurrent stroke in patients with PFO and cryptogenic stroke is not yet definitively established.
- Ongoing randomized clinical trials are crucial for answering remaining questions and refining treatment guidelines.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the role of PFO in stroke etiology and management.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction
Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a thrombus, fat or air embolus, amniotic fluid, or tumor tissue blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. These blockages originate in the venous system or the right side of the heart.EtiologyPE primarily arises from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other hypercoagulable states, such as inherited thrombophilias. Additional etiological factors include venous stasis, commonly seen in obesity, and endothelial injury from surgery and trauma. Less common causes include...
01:19Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction
A blood clot, or thrombus, is a semi-solid mass composed of fibrin, platelets, and red blood cells. When it forms within a vessel, it can obstruct blood flow, known as thrombosis. If part of the clot detaches, it becomes an embolus that can travel and block distant vessels. When this occurs in the pulmonary arteries, it causes a condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE).Origin and ImpactMost often, the embolus originates from a thrombus in the deep veins of the lower limbs, a condition called...
01:17Measurement of Blood Pressure
Assessing blood pressure is a standard procedure executed in virtually all medical environments. The method utilized today was established over a hundred years ago by an innovative Russian doctor, Dr. Nikolai Korotkoff. The soft ticking noise, known as Korotkoff sounds, heard while taking blood pressure readings results from turbulent blood flow within the vessels. The apparatus required for this procedure includes a sphygmomanometer, a blood pressure cuff attached to a gauge, and a stethoscope.
01:29Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Diagnosing Pulmonary EmbolismDiagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE) involves clinical assessment and advanced imaging tests. The preferred diagnostic tool is the spiral (helical) CT scan or CT angiography (CTA), which uses intravenous contrast media to visualize the pulmonary vasculature and identify emboli.A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan is an alternative for patients unable to receive contrast media. This scan includes both perfusion and ventilation scanning. Perfusion scanning involves...
01:27Pulmonary Embolism III: Nursing Management
A pulmonary embolism occurs when a thrombus, amniotic fluid, tumor tissue, fat, or air embolus blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. Effective nursing management and patient education are crucial for improving outcomes and preventing recurrence.Nursing management starts with obtaining a comprehensive patient history, particularly noting any history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Assess for clinical manifestations, including dyspnea, chest pain, crackles, heart murmurs, and signs of right-sided...
01:08Pneumothorax II: Pathophysiology
Pneumothorax means the presence of air in the pleural space — the thin potential gap between the visceral and parietal pleura. This condition disrupts the normal pressure balance that keeps the lungs inflated, leading to partial or complete collapse of the affected lung.Normal physiologyUnder normal conditions, the pleural space maintains a slightly negative intrapleural pressure, which keeps the lungs expanded against the chest wall. This negative pressure creates a delicate balance between...