This book is the ultimate reference on patent foramen ovale (PFO) a defect in the septum of
the heart estimated to be present in more than twenty percent of the adult population and a
proven cause of systemic embolism. All chapters have been written by internationally recognized
experts in the field and cover PFO genetics and anatomy in addition to the effect PFO can have
on various different organs and its supposed involvement in several conditions and clinical
syndromes such as migraine diving incidence platynea orthodeoxia economy class syndrome
sleep apnea and persistent desaturations in mild right ventricular dysfunction. As PFO anatomy
varies significantly between individuals chapters have also been included on the diagnostic
tools methods and techniques for appropriate assessment detection and characterization of
PFO. Furthermore the multitude of available closure devices and techniques for PFO closure are
discussed together with current and ongoing trial data. The book concludes with guidance and
instruction on establishing a successful PFO program.Patent Foramen Ovale will be an essential
text for the whole adult and pediatric interventional community general cardiologists
internists primary care physicians neurologists and device companies in addition to medical
students graduate students and fellows in training.
