Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026
10:52
Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): An Intervention Sequence
Published on: December 23, 2022
Workforce Attachment After Patent Foramen Ovale Closure.
Kasper Bonnesen1,2,3,4, Nils Skajaa5, Kristina Laut6
1Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
Structural Heart : the Journal of the Heart Team
|May 25, 2026
Summary
Patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure significantly improved workforce attachment in stroke patients. Most patients returned to work or study within a year, with reduced sick leave and increased long-term disability pension use.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Cryptogenic stroke is often associated with patent foramen ovale (PFO).
- Previous beliefs suggested mild symptoms following PFO-related stroke.
- Limited data exists on long-term functional recovery and workforce participation post-PFO closure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate workforce attachment and functional outcomes in stroke patients after PFO closure.
- To quantify changes in employment status, sick leave, and disability pension use.
Main Methods:
- Prospective assessment of workforce attachment.
- Data collection at the time of PFO closure and at 1-year follow-up.
- Analysis of employment, sick leave, and disability pension status.
Main Results:
- Workforce attachment increased from 39% at PFO closure to 71% at 1 year.
- Sick leave decreased from 51% to 15% within the first year post-closure.
- Disability pension use showed a steady increase, reaching 11% by 5 years.
Conclusions:
- PFO closure in stroke patients leads to substantial improvements in workforce participation and reduced sick leave.
- While initial recovery is strong, long-term disability pension use indicates persistent challenges for some patients.
- PFO closure is associated with significant functional and occupational recovery in stroke survivors.
