25 percent of the human population has a hole in the heart

Imagine if you had a hole in your heart and didn’t even know it. Surprisingly, this is the reality for 25% of the population. This condition, known as patent foramen ovale (PFO), usually causes no symptoms and is often harmless. However, in some cases, it can lead to serious health problems. Here, we explore what PFO is, why it matters, and what can be done about it.

What is a patent foramen ovale (PFO)?

Before birth, every human fetus has a hole between the left and right atria (the upper chambers) of the heart. This hole called the foramen ovale, allows blood to bypass the lungs, which are not used until after birth. Normally, this hole closes shortly after birth. However, in about 25% of people, it doesn’t close completely, resulting in a PFO.

The silent presence of PFO

For most people, a PFO is harmless. Many live their entire lives without knowing they have it. The small hole can allow a tiny amount of blood to pass between the heart’s chambers, but this usually doesn’t cause problems. However, in about 5% of cases, PFO can lead to serious health issues like strokes and heart attacks.

When PFO becomes dangerous

The main risk of having a PFO is that it can allow blood clots to pass from the right side of the heart to the left, potentially causing strokes, heart attacks, or other embolic events. This can happen without warning, making PFO a silent but potentially deadly condition.

The importance of screening and closure

Dr. Bernhard Meier, a leading cardiologist from the University of Bern, Switzerland, emphasises the importance of closing PFOs, especially for those with high-risk features. Closing a PFO is a straightforward procedure with significant benefits, often compared to a “mechanical vaccination” because it can prevent severe health problems down the line.

The simple and safe procedure

Closing a PFO is a minimally invasive procedure that takes less than 30 minutes. Patients can usually leave the hospital the same day and resume normal activities almost immediately. The procedure involves inserting a small device through a vein in the leg, which travels to the heart and seals the hole. The success rate is virtually 100%, with minimal complications.

Who should be screened?

Screening for PFO should become more common, especially for individuals at higher risk of embolic events. These include:

• People with migraines: Migraines, especially with aura, can sometimes be linked to PFOs. Closing the PFO often reduces migraine symptoms and provides the added benefit of preventing future embolic events.
• Individuals with unexplained strokes or heart attacks: For those who suffer from these conditions without an obvious cause, a PFO might be the hidden culprit.
• Individuals with a family history of PFO-related problems: If a close relative has experienced serious issues due to a PFO, screening is advisable.

Broader benefits of PFO closure

Closing a PFO doesn’t just prevent life-threatening events; it can also improve quality of life in other ways:

• Migraine Relief: Many patients report significant reductions in migraine frequency and severity post-procedure.
• Improved Physical Activity/Exercise Tolerance: Some people experience better stamina and less breathlessness during physical activities.
• Reduction in Embolic Events: Closing a PFO lowers the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other embolic events.

The evidence is compelling: closing PFOs can save lives and improve the quality of life for many. Dr. Meier’s review highlights the simplicity and effectiveness of the procedure, urging the medical community to take PFOs seriously. By increasing awareness and screening, especially in high-risk groups, we can prevent countless strokes, heart attacks, and other serious health issues.

In essence, closing the gap – literally and figuratively – can make a world of difference. It’s time for the medical community to embrace this preventive measure and protect more people from the hidden dangers of a patent foramen ovale.

For those interested in getting the procedure regarding closing the PFO, contact Medijump as we have a list of cardiac surgeons experienced with the protocol.