Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 17, 2025

Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale PFO: An Intervention Sequence
Published on: December 23, 2022
Platypnea-Orthodeoxia Syndrome Due to Patent Foramen Ovale: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge
Michelle Carrasquel-Alvarez1, Khaleel Quasem1, Varun George1
1McLaren Greater Lansing, Lansing, Michigan, USA; Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA.
Background:
Platypnea-orthodeoxia syndrome (POS) is a rare condition characterized by dyspnea and hypoxia exacerbated by an upright position. It is often associated with intracardiac or pulmonary shunting.
Case Summary:
An 82-year-old woman presented with increasing fatigue, dizziness, and worsening dyspnea on exertion for 1 month. She was hypoxic, requiring high-flow oxygen. Initial work-up, including imaging and right heart catheterization, revealed an aneurysmal interatrial septum with a right-to-left shunt through a patent foramen ovale (PFO). The patient underwent successful percutaneous closure of the PFO, resulting in resolution of hypoxia and dyspnea.
Discussion:
POS should be suspected in cases of positional hypoxia. The pathophysiology involves anatomical and hemodynamic factors that promote right-to-left shunting in specific positions. PFO closure is the definitive treatment, leading to symptom resolution.
Take-Home Messages:
POS should be considered in patients with unexplained positional hypoxia. PFO closure can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life in affected patients.
More Related Videos
07:41Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure
Published on: February 8, 2022
13:10Direct Re-implantation of Left Coronary Artery into the Aorta in Adults with Anomalous Origin of Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery ALCAPA
Published on: April 24, 2017
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Pulmonary Hypertension: Classification and Pathogenesis
There are various classifications for PH, each relating to different underlying causes and also...
Cardiomyopathy VII: Pre and Post Operative Nursing Management
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Oxygen Therapy for Respiratory Failure
Oxygen therapy is vital in increasing and maintaining blood oxygen levels in PAH patients. As a result, it aids in reducing fatigue,...