The Relationship of Ultrasonic Characteristics of the Patent Foramen Ovale and Interventional Closure

Abstract

Objective Percutaneous interventional closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) is the main method for the treatment of PFO. However, closure failed in some patients. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between ultrasonic characteristics of PFO and the results of PFO closure. Method Contrast transthoracic echocardiography (c-TTE) of right heart and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) were performed to obtain data regarding the degree of the right-to-left shunt (RLS), the width and length of the PFO, the color shunt, the granular echo in the PFO gap, and atrial septal aneurysm (ASA). The effect of each factor on closure was analyzed by logistic regression. Results A total of 222 cases were included in the analysis. PFO with granular echo in the PFO gap, with ASA, grade I RLS, and without TEE color shunt had higher probabilities of failed PFO closure. Long PFO also had higher probability of failed PFO closure. Conclusions C-TTE and TEE ultrasonic characteristics of PFO may be indicative of PFO closure results. For patients about to undergo PFO closure, it is beneficial to observe the ultrasonic characteristics of PFO to provide patients with more ideal treatment.