Is surgery always necessary for patent foramen ovale?
Apr 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Qifeng
Introduction
Patent foramen ovale (PFO), when accompanied by elevated right atrial pressure, may trigger conditions such as stroke and peripheral arterial thrombosis, significantly affecting health. In such cases, surgical closure of the PFO is generally required. However, if there is no shunt or only a small shunt without obvious clinical symptoms, treatment is usually unnecessary, and regular follow-up observation suffices; surgery is not needed in these cases.
Whether patent foramen ovale (PFO) requires surgery generally depends on specific clinical symptoms, and appropriate management should be chosen accordingly. The details are as follows:
1. Yes, surgery is needed
After the occurrence of PFO, if it coexists with elevated right atrial pressure, it may trigger conditions such as stroke or peripheral arterial thrombosis, significantly affecting health. In such cases, timely surgical intervention is usually necessary, such as PFO closure procedures or repair surgery to seal the opening.
2. No, surgery is not needed
PFO typically refers to the failure of normal fusion of the foramen ovale and is a relatively common congenital cardiac anomaly. If there is no shunt or only a small shunt without obvious clinical symptoms, treatment is generally unnecessary; regular follow-up observation suffices, and surgery can be avoided.
After diagnosis of PFO, maintaining a regular lifestyle, ensuring adequate rest, and avoiding strenuous exercise are important to prevent discomfort or complications.
