What is a PFO?

A PFO is simply an opening or flap in the heart that provides a communication between the right and left atria. In 80% of all people this opening closes spontaneously within the first few days after birth. In 20% of the population, this flap remains more or less open.

Studies show that a PFO is found in up to 50% of all patients who have suffered a cryptogenic stroke. Additionally a PFO is found in up to 50% of Migraine sufferers.

By using trans esophageal echocardiography (TEE) it is possible to see that in over half of these cryptogenic stroke and migraine patients, bubbles from injected contrast medium move from the right to the left atrium. If the foramen ovale is open, blood clots/micro emboli could go from the right side of the heart to the left side and possibly cause a stroke.

Both the ATRIASEPT and the INTRASEPT PFO devices are designed to close this flap quickly, safely and non-surgically. In most cases patients are admitted to the hospital in the morning and return home that evening or the following day.