PFO and Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Treatment
PFO and Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Treatment at PIH Health Heart and Vascular Center
Understanding PFO and ASD
A patent foramen ovale (PFO) and an atrial septal defect (ASD) are openings in the wall (septum) between the right and left upper chambers of the heart. While small defects may not cause problems, larger holes in the septum can allow blood to flow abnormally between the chambers. This can place strain on the heart and lungs and may increase the risk of stroke or other complications.
At PIH Health Heart and Vascular Center, our expert cardiologists provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options tailored to each patient.
Possible Risks of a PFO
While many PFOs are harmless, they may be linked to:
- Stroke: A clot can pass through the PFO and reach the brain.
- Migraines: Especially migraines with aura.
- Decompression Illness: Seen in divers or pilots exposed to rapid pressure changes.
Treatment Options for PFO
At PIH Health, your doctor will help decide if treatment is needed based on your health, risks, and symptoms.
Monitoring Only
In many cases, no treatment is needed. If your PFO is small and not causing problems, your doctor may simply monitor your heart health with regular checkups.
Medication
Some patients may be prescribed blood thinners or antiplatelet medications to lower the risk of blood clots and stroke.
PFO Closure (Minimally Invasive Procedure)
If you have had an unexplained stroke or other symptoms connected to a PFO, your doctor may recommend closure.
How it works:
- A thin catheter (tube) is inserted into a vein in your leg and guided to your heart.
- A small closure device is placed to seal the opening between the atria.
- Over time, your heart tissue grows over the device, creating a permanent closure.
Benefits of PFO Closure:
- Reduces the risk of another stroke in certain patients
- Minimally invasive with a faster recovery than surgery
- Performed by expert PIH Health cardiologists
Surgical Patch Repair
In rare cases—such as when a catheter-based closure is not possible—a surgeon may repair the PFO with a patch during open-heart surgery. While effective, this approach is usually reserved for patients who are already having surgery for another heart condition.
Why Choose PIH Health?
- Experienced Specialists: Our cardiologists are experts in treating PFO and other structural heart conditions.
- Advanced Technology: We use the latest minimally invasive closure devices and imaging tools.
- Personalized Care: Every treatment plan is tailored to your needs.
- Compassionate Support: From diagnosis to recovery, we’re with you every step of the way.
Take the Next Step
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a PFO or ASD, you don’t have to face it alone. Our team at PIH Health Heart and Vascular Center is here to provide answers, treatment options, and world-class care close to home.
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