An estimated 700,000 people experience an ischemic stroke in the United States every year. In 25% to 30% of these patients, the etiology cannot be determined, and the stroke is labeled as cryptogenic.1 A patent foramen ovale (PFO) occurs in one out of every four adults,2 but nearly half of people with cryptogenic stroke have a PFO.3 A number of observational studies have suggested that implantation of a PFO-occluding device can reduce the risk of recurrent stroke or transient ischemic attack compared with medical therapy in patients with cryptogenic stroke.4 It is hypothesized that the PFO acts as a conduit for thrombus to pass from the venous to the arterial circulation; the paradoxical embolization can travel to the brain or systemic circulation. This article summarizes the lessons learned from six randomized clinical trials and presents an evidenced-based approach for identifying stroke patients who may benefit most from percutaneous PFO closure.
ENCORE PFO CLOSURE DEVICE FDA TRIAL IS UNDERWAY. CONTACT US FOR DETAILS
