PFO

Question 1

What is the prevelance of PFO in stroke pts

Answer 1

30-50% of stroke pts who are young <50 with cryptogenic strokes

Question 2

PFO and stroke are causally related if

Answer 2

The PFO is large and is associated with an atrial septal aneurysm

Question 3

Is PFO an unlikely cause for a stoke if the patient has

Answer 3

Atherosclerosis, other strike mechanisms, or is elderly >60

Question 4

What is the mechanism of stroke with a PFO

Answer 4

Paradoxical embolism caused by a venous thrombus that bypasses the pulmonary circulation and embolizes to the brain

Question 5

What is the treatment for pts w/PFO?

Answer 5

Antiplatelet drugs - ASS

Endovascular closure devices

Question 6

PFO is found in what percent of healthy adults?

Answer 6

25%