Patent Foramen Ovale

Posted by Kathy on April 23, 1999 at 20:42:32
I recently had a stroke of some significances and the doctor told me that it was caused by a hole between my atrium chambers . He said that blood clots from my legs were jumping over from one side of the heart to the other and on up into my brain.  He told me that there was really no surgery at this time that he deemed safe .  Is that true and if not could you please fill me on what is available and my be refer me the best doctor  that is suited for my condition.  I have a deep concern to get this taken care of quickly as I am only 41 years old.
Posted by shannon on April 25, 1999 at 01:54:17
Dear Kathy --
I assume you have some other underlying heart problem?
I'm responding because I went in for mitral valve repair some six weeks ago, and my surgeon found I had an undiagnosed PFO, as well.  They repaired it with some kind of a patch (it's visible, along with the valve ring, on x-ray).  So I'm confused about why you've been told there is no surgery available to repair yours.  Is it because of your other health problems?   Since you're only 41, it seems odd to me (I'm 44).
My best wishes for your recovery come with this response.
Shannon

Posted by CCF CARDIO MD - CRC on April 26, 1999 at 14:04:54
Dear Shannon,
Thank you for your comments.  Yes surgery can be done for this but is not often done for PFO alone.  I think with the new devices available this is a much better option.
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies.  Please feel free to write back with additional questions.
If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter.  The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.