Percutaneous PFO and Atrial Septal Defect Closure
Modern interventional cardiology now allows the correction of structural heart defects without the need for open-heart surgery. PFO closure (patent foramen ovale) and the treatment of atrial septal defect (ASD) are critical procedures for preventing serious complications such as stroke.
What Are PFO and Atrial Septal Defect?
Both conditions involve a hole or opening in the interatrial septum (the wall separating the two atria of the heart), which allows blood to pass from one side to the other.
- Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): A small "tunnel" that normally exists during fetal life but failed to close after birth (occurs in 25% of the population).
- Atrial Septal Defect (ASD): A congenital condition in which tissue is missing from the septum. It can cause enlargement of the right cardiac chambers or pulmonary hypertension if left untreated.
The Connection to Stroke
One of the most serious complications of these openings is paradoxical embolism. A small clot from the venous system, instead of being filtered through the lungs, passes through the opening into the arterial circulation and can travel to the brain.
Key data: PFO closure in patients under 60 who have suffered a cryptogenic stroke (of unknown cause) reduces the risk of a recurrent event by more than 80%.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
The procedure is minimally invasive (percutaneous) and is carried out using a specialized device resembling a tiny double umbrella.
- Access: Via the femoral vein in the leg, a thin catheter is guided to the heart
- Placement: Under the guidance of transesophageal echocardiography and fluoroscopy, the "umbrella" is deployed and "clicks" into place directly over the defect, sealing the opening
- Duration & hospitalization: The procedure takes approximately 1 hour. The patient typically remains in hospital for one day and returns to normal daily activities immediately
Indications and Assessment (RoPE Score)
The decision to proceed with closure is made following thorough evaluation. We use internationally validated assessment tools, such as the RoPE Score, to determine whether the PFO is the primary risk factor for the individual patient.
Closure is indicated when:
- A stroke has already occurred with no other apparent cause
- There is a large opening with right ventricular enlargement
- Pulmonary hypertension is identified
We Are Here for You
Percutaneous closure is an exceptionally safe procedure (complication rate <1%) that changes patients' lives, offering protection and peace of mind. If you have been diagnosed with PFO or ASD, we can discuss your options and plan the most appropriate treatment.