• A PFO is a flap-like opening between the atria that normally closes shortly after birth. For about 25% of people, it remains partially open. A doctor might recommend PFO closure if:

   

  • Cryptogenic Stroke: If you’ve had a stroke with no apparent cause, especially if you’re younger than 60, a PFO might be the culprit. It can allow small blood clots to bypass the lungs and travel to the brain.
  • Migraine with Aura: Some studies suggest that PFO closure might help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines with aura, although this is still being researched.
  • Decompression Sickness: A PFO can increase the risk of decompression sickness for divers by allowing bubbles to bypass the lungs.
  • Platypnea-Orthodeoxia Syndrome: This rare condition causes breathlessness and low oxygen levels when sitting or standing, which can be related to a PFO.

  PFO closure is typically performed only if the PFO is believed to be causing specific problems, as many people live with a PFO without issues.

• An ASD is a more significant opening between the atria that doesn’t close after birth. A doctor might recommend ASD closure for:

   

  • Significant Left-to-Right Shunt: If a large amount of blood is flowing from the left atrium to the right, it can lead to right heart enlargement and pulmonary hypertension over time.
  • Heart Failure Symptoms: If you’re experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling due to the ASD.
  • Prevention of Complications: Even if you’re asymptomatic, closing a moderate to large ASD can prevent future complications like atrial arrhythmias, pulmonary hypertension, or paradoxical embolism.
  • Children with Growth Issues: In children, a significant ASD can lead to poor growth and development.
  • Stroke Prevention: Like PFOs, ASDs can allow clots to bypass the lungs and cause strokes.

   

  The decision between PFO and ASD closure is based on:

   

  • Size of the Opening: PFOs are typically smaller and may not require closure unless causing specific issues. ASDs are often larger and more likely to cause hemodynamic changes.
  • Location: PFOs are always in the same location (where the septum primum and septum secundum overlap), while ASDs can occur in different parts of the atrial septum.
  • Symptoms and Complications: PFOs are often asymptomatic and only closed if linked to specific issues. ASDs are more likely to cause noticeable symptoms or lead to heart and lung problems over time.
  • Age and Overall Health: The risks and benefits of closure are weighed differently for PFOs and ASDs based on the patient’s age and health status.

   

  In both cases, the decision to close the defect is made after careful consideration of the individual patient’s situation, including the defect’s size, associated symptoms, and potential risks of the procedure versus the risks of leaving the defect open. Your cardiologist will discuss these factors with you to determine the most appropriate course of action for your specific heart condition.

Trust your heart health to CVG’s twenty board-certified cardiologists. Equipped with leading-edge diagnostic tools, a wealth of experience, and compassion, our cardiac team provides the highest level of personalized care.

You can review our cardiologists’ pages and explore their exceptional credentials and dedication to providing quality care. You can trust that our doctors genuinely care about you and will do everything they can to ensure you have the best quality of life possible.

To learn more, please call (770) 962-0399 or 678-582-8586. You may also request an appointment online. If you have an emergency, don’t contact us online; please call 911.