What is PFO/ASD closure?
A patent foramen ovale (PFO) or an atrial septal defect (ASD) is a hole in the heart that didn’t close the way it should after birth. Although most people with PFO don’t need treatment, PFO might need to be closed in certain circumstances, for example, in patients who had stroke or suffered from decompression sickness (the bends). ASD might need to be closed if they are large or causing some strain on the heart.
PFO/ASD are closed with a tiny umbrella-like device delivered via a special catheter inserted through the groin vein.
Your cardiologist will explain the procedure in detail, including the indications and the risks.