The first patent foramen ovale closures have been successfully performed to improve the quality of life of people who have suffered a stroke using a novel technique.
The Comprehensive Cardiology Unit at La Luz University Hospital in Madrid has successfully performed its first patent foramen ovale (PFO) closures, a minimally invasive technique designed to improve the quality of life for stroke survivors. This innovative procedure was performed on a 29-year-old patient with a history of cryptogenic stroke, offering new hope to others with similar conditions.
A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is an abnormal opening between the right and left chambers of the heart, present in approximately 25% of the adult population. “In some cases, this condition can increase the risk of stroke ,” warns interventional cardiologist Dr. Jorge Palazuelos , head of the Hemodynamics Unit at the Comprehensive Cardiology Unit of La Luz University Hospital.
According to this expert in the treatment of complex coronary lesions , the intervention performed consisted of closing this hole by placing a stitch and a suture through a catheter via the femoral vein without the need for metallic devices.
The team of specialists at La Luz University Hospital highlighted the importance of this advancement using percutaneous suture closure for the treatment of patients who do not respond adequately to conventional therapies . “This procedure allows us to significantly reduce the risk of recurrent strokes and improve the quality of life of our patients,” emphasized Dr. Palazuelos.
The success of this procedure positions the Madrid hospital as a leader in interventional cardiology in the Community of Madrid. The technology used and the experience of the medical team were key to the excellent outcome achieved in this first operation.
“A safer and more effective alternative with greater benefits for our patients: as it is a percutaneous suture we do not leave implants, healing is faster, patients require less medication and, as no prosthesis is left, it facilitates future cardiac interventions if necessary…”, explains the doctor.
With this achievement, the Comprehensive Cardiology Unit (UICAR) reaffirms its commitment to incorporating the latest medical advances to offer innovative and safe treatments to its patients. This milestone adds to the center's initiatives to consolidate its position as a leader in the implementation of cutting-edge technologies in the field of cardiology.