Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 28, 2026

Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): An Intervention Sequence
10:52

Closure of a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): An Intervention Sequence

Published on: December 23, 2022

Patent Foramen Ovale and Atrial Septal Defect

Joe Aoun1, Taha Hatab1, John Volpi2

  • 1Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, TX, USA.

Cardiac Electrophysiology Clinics
|May 26, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) and atrial septal defects (ASDs) are heart conditions that can lead to serious complications like stroke. Early diagnosis and proper management are crucial for preventing risks and improving patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Congenital Heart Disease

Background:

  • Patent foramen ovale (PFO) and atrial septal defects (ASDs) are common interatrial communications.
  • PFO persists in 25-30% of adults, potentially causing paradoxical embolism and stroke.
  • ASDs often lead to right heart volume overload and can be associated with other congenital defects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To differentiate PFO and ASDs based on clinical presentation and management.
  • To describe diagnostic methods, treatment options, and potential complications for PFO and ASDs.
  • To emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.

Main Methods:

  • Review of diagnostic modalities for PFO and ASDs.
  • Analysis of treatment strategies, including surgical and percutaneous interventions.
  • Evaluation of potential complications associated with both conditions.

Main Results:

  • PFO may lead to embolic stroke due to paradoxical embolism.
  • ASDs typically cause right heart volume overload.
  • Both conditions require precise diagnosis and tailored management.

Conclusions:

  • Accurate diagnosis and appropriate management are essential for PFO and ASDs.
  • Interventions aim to mitigate risks such as stroke and heart failure.
  • Optimizing patient outcomes depends on a comprehensive approach to these cardiac conditions.

Keywords:
Atrial septal defectEchocardiographyPatent foramen ovaleTranscatheter closure

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