Patent foramen ovale (PFO)
Patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure is a procedure used to treat a congenital heart defect where a small opening between the two upper chambers of the heart fails to close properly after birth. This opening, known as the foramen ovale, can potentially allow blood clots to pass from the right side of the heart to the left, leading to strokes or other complications. PFO closure involves sealing this opening with a closure device to reduce the risk of such events.
Our Expertise
Our team specializes in PFO closure procedures, offering advanced expertise in treating this congenital heart defect. Led by experienced interventional cardiologists, we are dedicated to providing individualized care and achieving excellent outcomes for patients with PFOs.
Benefits of PFO Closure
Reduced Risk of Stroke
PFO closure significantly reduces the risk of strokes by preventing blood clots from passing through the opening in the heart and traveling to the brain. This helps protect patients from potentially life-threatening neurological complications.
Improved Quality of Life
Closing the PFO can alleviate symptoms such as migraine headaches, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), and other neurological symptoms associated with paradoxical embolism. Patients often experience an improvement in their quality of life and a reduction in the frequency and severity of symptoms after the procedure.
Minimally Invasive Approach
PFO closure is a minimally invasive procedure that involves a small incision in the groin area. This results in shorter recovery times, reduced pain, and lower risk of complications compared to traditional open-heart surgeries.
The PFO Closure Procedure
Here's what you can expect during a PFO Closure procedure:
Preparation
The patient undergoes preoperative assessments and discussions with the medical team to prepare for the PFO closure procedure. Anesthesia options, such as general anesthesia or conscious sedation, are chosen based on the patient's health and preferences.
Access
A small incision is made in the groin area to access the femoral vein. Alternatively, access may be obtained through a small incision in the arm.
Guidewire Insertion
A thin guidewire is inserted through the femoral vein and guided to the heart under fluoroscopic guidance. This wire serves as a pathway for the delivery of the closure device.
Catheter Placement
A catheter containing the closure device is advanced through the femoral vein and guided to the site of the PFO. The closure device is carefully positioned across the opening in the heart.
Device Deployment
The closure device is deployed, sealing the PFO and preventing blood clots from passing through the opening.
Assessment
The position and function of the closure device are assessed using imaging techniques such as echocardiography to ensure proper placement and sealing of the PFO.
Closure
Once the closure device is securely in place, the catheter is removed, and the incision site is closed using sutures or closure devices.
Recovery
Patients are typically monitored in a recovery area for a short period before being discharged home. Most patients experience a rapid recovery and can resume normal activities within a few days following the PFO closure procedure. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and the patient's overall cardiac health.