Cerebral Microembolization Associated With PFO Closure

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is prevalent in the general population and it is commonly accepted that PFO is associated with various pathological conditions, including ischemic stroke, transient ischemic attack, migraines, and systemic or coronary embolization. In situ thrombus formation may play a role in patients with PFO-associated stroke or migraines. After transcatheter closure of PFO, peri-interventional cerebral embolic lesions have been detected. This study aims to investigate (1) the de novo cerebral microembolization in patients who undergo transcatheter closure of PFO or ASD, and (2) evaluate the relationship between de novo cerebral microembolization and in situ thrombus within PFO.