Stroke & PFO Closure

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a small hole between the upper chambers of the heart, present in around 25% of the population. It usually causes no problems, but in younger patients with cryptogenic stroke it may be the underlying cause. Heart Valve Clinic provides specialist telehealth assessment, including evaluation for percutaneous PFO closure.

Referral Criteria

Referral is appropriate for patients with:

  • Cryptogenic stroke or TIA with no identifiable cause on standard workup

  • Known PFO on echocardiogram with history of embolic stroke or TIA

  • Younger patients (typically under 60 years) with first ischaemic stroke and PFO identified on imaging

  • Patients currently on anticoagulation for stroke prevention who are seeking a structural alternative

About PFO Closure

PFO closure is a minimally invasive catheter-based procedure performed under general anaesthesia or sedation. A small device is deployed through the femoral vein to seal the PFO, reducing the risk of paradoxical embolism. Trial evidence supports closure in appropriately selected patients with cryptogenic stroke, particularly those under 60. The telehealth consultation reviews the stroke workup, echocardiographic findings and closure suitability.

Clinicians reviewing a brain scan to investigate a suspected stroke