Illustration of a heart with a PFO being closed with light.

PFO Closure: Is it Really Worth it? Unpacking the Risks and Rewards

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Avery Sinclair in Health & Wellness April 2025 • 5 min read.

"Navigating the Complexities of Patent Foramen Ovale Closure: A Comprehensive Look at Stroke Prevention, Atrial Fibrillation, and Radiation Exposure."


The human body is a marvel, but sometimes, it has quirks that need fixing. One such quirk is a Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO), a small opening between the heart's two upper chambers. While it's normal before birth, it usually closes shortly after. When it doesn't, it's a PFO, and it can sometimes lead to strokes or other complications. That's where PFO closure comes in—a procedure to close that opening and keep your heart happy.

But is closing a PFO always the best choice? It's a question many patients and doctors face, and the answer isn't always clear-cut. New research is constantly emerging, giving us more insight into the benefits and risks of PFO closure. We're diving deep into recent studies presented at major cardiology conferences to give you the real scoop.

We will be breaking down the essentials of PFO closure, what the latest research reveals about its effectiveness in preventing strokes, and what potential side effects you should be aware of. We'll also look into innovative techniques designed to minimize radiation exposure during the procedure. Whether you're a patient, a caregiver, or just someone curious about heart health, this information is for you.

PFO Closure: Weighing Stroke Prevention Against Atrial Fibrillation Risk

Illustration of a heart with a PFO being closed with light.

One of the main reasons people consider PFO closure is to prevent future strokes, especially if they've already had one. Several studies have investigated whether closing the PFO is more effective than just taking medication to prevent blood clots. A comprehensive meta-analysis, which combines the results of multiple studies, sheds some light on this question.

The meta-analysis included data from 3921 patients, and the results are pretty interesting. It found that closing the PFO with a device significantly reduced the risk of future strokes compared to medical therapy alone. But, here's the catch: it also found that the rate of atrial fibrillation (AFib), a type of irregular heartbeat, significantly increased in patients treated with only medical therapy.
  • Stroke Prevention: PFO closure devices led to a significant reduction in stroke risk.
  • Atrial Fibrillation: Patients treated with medical therapy alone saw increased rates of atrial fibrillation.
  • Mortality Rates: While mortality rates were reduced with PFO closure, the difference was not statistically significant.
So, what does this all mean? On one hand, PFO closure seems to do a good job of preventing strokes. On the other hand, medical therapy alone might increase the risk of AFib. It's a bit of a balancing act, and doctors need to consider each patient's individual risk factors when making a decision. If someone is already at high risk for AFib, PFO closure might be a better option. If their stroke risk is low, medical therapy might be enough.

Making Informed Decisions

Deciding whether or not to undergo PFO closure is a personal journey that requires careful consideration and open communication with your healthcare provider. By staying informed about the latest research and understanding the potential benefits and risks, you can confidently navigate this decision and take control of your heart health. Remember, you're not alone in this, and there are resources and support available to help you every step of the way.

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