Regresar

Cryptogenic Stroke in Patients with Patent Foramen Ovale

Abstract:

• Objective: To discuss what is known regarding patent foramen ovale (PFO) and cryptogenic stroke and options for secondary stroke prevention.• Methods: Review of the literature.• Results: Observational studies have suggested a strong association between PFO and cryptogenic stroke. Optimal therapy for prevention of recurrent stroke in patients with cryptogenic stroke and PFO has not been defined. Treatment options include medical therapy with antiplatelet agents or warfarin, percutaneous device closure, or open surgical repair. Current guidelines recommend antiplatelet therapy for patients with ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack and PFO. Percutaneous closure has largely replaced surgical repair. Case series of percutaneous PFO closure have shown risk reduction of stroke recurrence. Randomized clinical trials comparing percutaneous PFO closure and medical management are underway.• …