Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO)

Overview and management, particularly related to stroke.

Reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP (General Practitioner)
Last reviewed: 21 October 2025
CardiologyNeurology

Clinical Guidelines

NICE Interventional Procedures Guidance [IPG371]: Percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale for the prevention of recurrent cerebral embolic events
National
NICE Interventional Procedures Guidance [IPG472]: Percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale to prevent cerebral embolic stroke
National
AAN Practice Advisory Update: Patent Foramen Ovale and Secondary Stroke Prevention
Local
AHA/ASA Scientific Statement: Patent Foramen Ovale Management for Secondary Stroke Prevention
Local
BMJ Rapid Recommendation: Patent foramen ovale closure, antiplatelet therapy or anticoagulation in patients with cryptogenic stroke and patent foramen ovale
Local
European position paper on the management of patients with patent foramen ovale: General approach and left circulation thromboembolism
Local
European Stroke Organisation (ESO) Guidelines on the diagnosis and management of patent foramen ovale in patients with ischaemic stroke
Local
SCAI Guidelines for the Management of Patent Foramen Ovale
Local