Patent Foramen Ovale and Cryptogenic Stroke: Integrated Management
Fabiana Lucà, Paolo Giuseppe Pino, Iris Parrini, Stefania Angela Di Fusco, Roberto Ceravolo, Andrea Madeo, Angelo Leone, Mark La Meir, Francesco Benedetto, Carmine Riccio, Fabrizio Oliva, Furio Colivicchi, Michele Massimo Gulizia, Sandro Gelsomino
Abstract
Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common cardiac abnormality with a prevalence of 25% in the general population. PFO has been associated with the paradoxical embolism causing cryptogenic stroke and systemic embolization. Results from clinical trials, meta-analyses, and position papers support percutaneous PFO device closure (PPFOC), especially if interatrial septal aneurysms coexist and in the presence of large shunts in young patients. Remarkably, accurately evaluating patients to refer to the closure strategy is extremely important. However, the selection of patients for PFO closure is still not so clear. The aim of this review is to update and clarify which patients should be considered for closure treatment.