ASD & PFO Closures
What is an ASD and PFO?
ASD (atrial septal defect) and PFO (patent foramen ovale) are very similar in that they are both a type of hole between the left and right atriums (upper chambers of the heart). Generally, neither an ASD or PFO will cause complications, but in rare cases, in patients with certain conditions, an ASD or PFO can be related to unexplained strokes and migraines. In certain clinical situations patients qualify to have this defect closed. This is done by inserting a catheter (a long thin tube) through a vein in the groin and advancing it up into the heart. The closure device is then passed through the catheter, and once in the heart, it opens to securely cover the ASD or PFO.
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