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Updated: Jan 29, 2026

Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale PFO: An Intervention Sequence
Published on: December 23, 2022
[Paradoxical embolism due to a persistent patent foramen ovale. Report of one case]
Eric Fuentes Latorre1, Bárbara Vidal Hagemeijer2
1CR cardiología, Hospital regional de Talca, Chile.
Abstract:
Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is one of the most frequent congenital defects in adults. Its prevalence in middle-aged adults is close to 25-30% and may cause paradoxical embolic phenomena. We report a 45 years old male admitted for an ischemic stroke with an occlusion of the left terminal internal carotid artery. A thrombectomy was performed. Searching for possible sources of emboli, a patent foramen ovale was detected in an echocardiography, with an hypoechogenic examination image passing through it. Anticoagulant therapy was started and the patient had an uneventful evolution.
Insights
Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO), a common heart defect, can lead to paradoxical emboli. This case highlights PFO detection during ischemic stroke evaluation, leading to successful treatment and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is a frequent congenital heart defect in adults, affecting 25-30% of middle-aged individuals.
- PFO can be a source of paradoxical embolic events, leading to conditions like ischemic stroke.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old male presented with an ischemic stroke due to left internal carotid artery occlusion.
- Echocardiography revealed a Patent Foramen Ovale with an echogenic structure traversing it, suggesting a source of embolism.
Findings:
- Thrombectomy was successfully performed to address the carotid artery occlusion.
- The detection of PFO prompted the initiation of anticoagulant therapy.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of investigating PFO in patients experiencing cryptogenic ischemic strokes.
- Timely diagnosis and appropriate management, including anticoagulation, can lead to favorable patient outcomes.
- Identifying PFO as an embolic source is crucial for preventing recurrent cerebrovascular events.
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