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Updated: Feb 14, 2026
10:52
Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale PFO: An Intervention Sequence
Published on: December 23, 2022
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PFO closure for secondary stroke prevention: is the discussion closed?
Joseph J Shatzel1,2, Molly M Daughety3, Vinay Prasad3
1Department of Hematology, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA. shatzel@ohsu.edu.
Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis
|February 22, 2018
Summary
Closing a patent foramen ovale (PFO) may benefit select stroke patients, but caution is advised. The intervention has risks and limited proven benefit compared to modern anticoagulation for most patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Medical Interventions
Background:
- Previous studies on Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) closure for secondary stroke prevention showed no significant benefit.
- Recent conflicting reports suggest potential benefits in specific patient populations.
- Growing discussions necessitate a careful evaluation of PFO closure's role.
Discussion:
- Caution is advised when extrapolating recent data and applying PFO closure to broader patient groups.
- The intervention carries a notable complication rate and has not been compared against contemporary anticoagulation strategies.
- Only a small subset of stroke patients are likely to benefit from PFO closure.
Key Insights:
- Recent studies present conflicting evidence regarding the efficacy of PFO closure for stroke prevention.
- Patient selection is critical, as only a minority of stroke patients may benefit from this intervention.
- The complication rate and lack of comparison with modern anticoagulation options necessitate careful consideration.
Outlook:
- Discussions regarding PFO closure for stroke prevention are expected to increase.
- Further comparative studies are needed to establish the role of PFO closure against modern medical therapies.
- A nuanced approach is required, balancing potential benefits against risks and patient-specific factors.
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