Different patent foramen ovale closure techniques in varying anatomies

Abstract

Technological developments in recent years have made percutaneous patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure a feasible and safe treatment option. Procedural competency demands a thorough understanding on the variations of PFO anatomy, which can broadly be classified into PFO with minimal tunnel, PFO with long tunnel and PFO associated with atrial septal aneurysm. Each of these subtypes requires different techniques to achieve successful PFO closure and it is unlikely that a single ‘ideal’ device will be suitable for all subtypes. Recognizing the potential problems associated with bulky metallic devices, current developments are focused on a minimalistic approach to PFO closure with reduced foreign material left on the inter-atrial septum. With further refinements, these novel technologies will likely take up a major role in the treatment of PFO-related diseases in the future.