Summary

A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is common in the general population and has been associated with cryptogenic stroke, stroke following orthopedic or neurosurgery, migraines with aura, and sleep apnea, as well as other less common conditions (ie, orthodexia, decompression illness, and altitude sickness). This article examines studies on PFO closures, complications with these devices, and left atrial appendage procedures.