Prevention of recurrent cerebral ischemic events in patients with patent foramen ovale and cryptogenic strokes or transient ischemic attacks.

Abstract

Patients with PFO had a significantly higher rate of recurrent cerebral ischemic events than those without PFO. Surgical PFO closure prevented any recurrences during a mean follow-up of 43 months. Warfarin was better than antiplatelet therapy or no therapy in preventing recurrences.