Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is an embryonic defect, seen in up to 25% of adults,¹ that has been associated with increased risk of ischemic stroke of unknown cause. It is defined as an opening in the septum between the atria that acts as a conduit for emboli from the deep veins of the pelvis or legs to the brain. Closure of a PFO may prevent paradoxical embolus from passing through a PFO and thereby reduce the risk of recurrent stroke.
PFO closure is a same-day, outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia or conscious sedation in a heart catheterization laboratory. The catheter-based procedure involves making a very small skin incision, guided by fluoroscopy and intracardiac echocardiography, typically in the right groin area, and inserting a catheter to guide the Amplatzer™ Talisman™ PFO Occluder through the blood vessels to close the PFO within the patient’s heart.
The Amplatzer™ Talisman™ PFO Occluder is built off a legacy of excellence, with over 20 years as the pioneer in PFO closure to reduce the risk of recurrent ischemic stroke. More than 180,000 patients have been treated worldwide.
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If you or a loved one have a PFO and have experienced a stroke, we have resources you may find helpful.
