A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a ‘flap’ also located between the atria of the heart but is not an abnormality as such. Normally this foramen ovale closes by itself 6 to 12 months after birth. When it does not close, it is known as a patent foramen ovale. It is present in 25% of adults but is more common (50%) in young people who have suffered a TIA or stroke.

Unless a baby has other heart defects that cause symptoms, a PFO may not be diagnosed until adulthood.

If you have a patent foramen ovale and are symptomatic, you will need to have the defect closed. In the past open heart surgery was the only option to close the defect. Nowadays, adults may be suitable for treatment using a minimally invasive, catheter based, approach. This approach is via the vein in the groin and does not require cardiopulmonary bypass, has an almost instant recovery, with a very low chance of complications.

Click for more information about patent foramen ovale (PFO)