Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) Closure

Reduce your risk of a stroke with PFO closure at CentraCare Heart & Vascular Center in St. Cloud. This treatment seals off a hole in your heart that could let blood clots escape. If a clot leaves the heart, it could move to an artery that sends blood to your brain — blocking your brain’s oxygen supply. PFO treatment helps keep you safe and healthy.

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What’s a PFO?

A foramen ovale is a normal heart hole that typically closes shortly after birth. However, it remains partially open in 25–33% of people, creating a condition called a PFO. Most PFOs don’t cause symptoms or need treatment. But if you have a stroke, and doctors think a PFO contributed to it, they may recommend closing the hole.

    How PFO Closure Works

    PFO treatment takes place at CentraCare – St. Cloud Hospital. It can be either surgical or nonsurgical. Your cardiologist will determine the right procedure for you.

    At CentraCare, we have performed nonsurgical PFO closures since 2007. This means you’ll be in experienced hands.

    A cardiologist will:

    1. Place a catheter (thin, soft tube) in a blood vessel
    2. Use the catheter to carry a tiny device up to your heart
    3. Plug the hole in your heart
    4. Withdraw the catheter

    Your Recovery

    If you did not have open-heart surgery, you will recover sooner and most likely go home the day after your procedure. You will have follow-up visits to check your health and make sure you’re doing well.

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    If you have questions about our structural heart and valve care, please call 320-293-0750 or email valveclinic@centracare.com.

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