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What Is a Patent Foramen Ovale?

According to Merck Pharmaceuticals, one of 120 babies is born with a heart defect. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a defect of the walls (septa) of the heart.

  1. Definition & Significance

    • The foramen ovale is an opening between the right and left atria (the upper chambers of the heart), normally found in fetuses. A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is present in about 25% of the population.

    Normal Physiology

    • Before birth, the fetus receives oxygen via the placenta. Fetal circulation requires the mixing of blood through the foramen ovale to accelerate the travel of oxygenated blood through the heart.

    Development of PFO

    • Since newborns must learn to breathe on their own, the foramen ovale normally closes shortly after birth. The term "patent foramen ovale" refers to the incomplete closure or non-closure of this opening.

    Causes of PFO

    • The causes of patent foramen ovale currently remain unknown, but genetic factors may play a role.

    Symptoms & Risks

    • While a small patent foramen ovale does not usually cause symptoms, a large one can cause shortness of breath, especially with exercise. The American Heart Association says that one's vulnerability to pneumonia and bronchitis can also increase, as well as the risk of blood clot formation and stroke.

    Diagnosis & Treatment

    • Diagnostic tools for PFO include echocardiograms and "bubble tests." Small openings do not usually require surgery or other treatments. Larger PFO, however, may need to be repaired with open-heart surgery or cardiac catheterization.

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