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Transcatheter PFO closure for cryptogenic stroke: current approaches and future considerations
Moemen Eltelbany1, Raghav Gattani2, Araba Ofosu-Somuah3
1Inova Schar Heart and Vascular, Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, Falls Church, VA, United States.
Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine
|June 4, 2024
Summary
Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) closure is a key treatment for cryptogenic stroke. This review covers current devices and investigational options for PFO closure in stroke patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is a common congenital heart defect affecting 20-35% of the population.
- While often benign, PFO can lead to cryptogenic stroke by allowing thrombus passage from venous to arterial circulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current role of transcatheter PFO closure in managing cryptogenic stroke.
- To discuss available and investigational devices for PFO closure.
Main Methods:
- Review of contemporary literature on PFO closure for cryptogenic stroke.
- Discussion of commercially available devices (Amplatzer PFO Occluder, Gore Cardioform Septal Occluder) and investigational devices (NobleStitch EL).
Main Results:
- PFO is implicated in nearly half of cryptogenic stroke cases.
- Transcatheter closure is a significant treatment option when other stroke causes are ruled out.
Conclusions:
- Practitioners need to be aware of PFO closure indications and available treatment options for optimal cryptogenic stroke patient care.
- Familiarity with current and emerging PFO closure devices is essential.
