What type of imaging is most commonly used during PFO closures?
Fluoroscopy alone can be performed for some ASD and PFO device closure procedures. With this single-imaging technique, the congenital cardiologist can use angiography to outline the septal anatomy and determine which device to implant.
How big is PFO closure device?
Three sizes of Amplatzer PFO closure devices are available and named after the diameter of the right sided disk. The most commonly used 25 mm Amplatzer PFO occluder features a right sided disk of 25 mm diameter and a left sided disk of 18 mm diameter.
How long does a PFO closure device last?
Observational studies and meta-analyses suggest that closure is associated with a benefit but evidence from randomized trials, remained inconclusive, with most analyses based on only moderate durations of follow-up, averaging 2 to 4 years.
How successful is PFO closure?
PFO closure in this long-term follow-up study of up to 12.4 years was associated with a very low recurrent event rate of 0.3% per year and a success rate of 99%.
What should you not do after a PFO closure?
For 6 months you will be required to take an antibiotic prior to dental cleaning or any procedures to prevent infecting the new device. No heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling greater than 10 pounds for 5 days. After 5 days, no heavy activity that causes deep/heavy breathing for 6-8 weeks. No driving for 5 days.
How do I prepare for a PFO closure?
Additional pre-operative tests may include chest x-ray, electrocardiogram, and blood tests to assess the general health of the patient as well as kidney function. Before the procedure, all patients undergoing PFO closure should be pre-treated with antiplatelet therapy, commonly with both aspirin and Plavix daily.
What devices are used to close a PFO?
PFO closure devices currently being used at Cleveland Clinic include the GORE® CARDIOFORM Septal Occluder and the Amplatzer® PFO occluder.
Can a PFO close on its own?
What Causes a Patent Foramen Ovale? A patent foramen ovale is normal until birth. The flap that closes it usually doesn’t completely do so until a baby is at least several months old. Why the flap doesn’t seal in some people is unknown.
Can I fly after PFO closure?
Don’t travel by plane for other reasons (such as business trips or vacation) for at least 1 week until your leg heals. What medicines do I need to take? If we closed your Atrial Septal Defect: You will take 1 Aspirin 81 milligrams tablet every day for 6 months.
What should I look for after a PFO closure?
What follow-up tests and home care instructions are typically given after a catheter-based procedure for PFO closure? Within 24 hours after the procedure, a chest X-ray, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram are performed to make sure that the device is positioned correctly.
What is a PFO occluder device?
The AMPLATZER™ PFO Occluder is a self-expandable, double-disc device made from a Nitinol wire mesh. The 2 discs are linked together by a short connecting waist. In order to increase its closing ability, the discs contain thin polyester fabric. The polyester fabric is securely sewn to each disc by a polyester thread.