Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) Work Up
A patent foramen ovale is a flap-like portion of the atrial septum, which separates the left and right chambers of the heart. The PFO usually closes at birth but can remain unsealed in approximately 25% of the population. In most cases, a PFO is a normal finding however it can be a relevant finding in young patients with unexplained stroke or transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs).
To accurately assess for the presence of a PFO, the following are performed:
A cannula is placed in your arm and a small amount of saline solution (salty water) is injected while asking you to perform different breathing exercises whilst some imaging is performed.
This involves using a small ultrasound transducer on the side of your head and imaging is performed during the saline injections.
Nil.
Approximately 90 minutes.
Booking required. Please phone (07) 3847 4422.
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Locations where this test is available:
- Greenslopes Private Hospital Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic
- St Vincent’s Medical Centre – Toowoomba
Our other Echocardiography tests include:
