Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the current evidence on percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale for the prevention of cerebral embolic stroke.

Authors' recommendations: 1.1 Current evidence suggests that there are no major safety concerns and that percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale for the prevention of cerebral embolic stroke is efficacious in achieving closure of the foramen. However, its efficacy in preventing future strokes has not been clearly shown. 1.2 Clinicians wishing to undertake percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale should take the following actions. - Ensure that patients understand the uncertainty about the procedures efficacy and provide them with clear written information. Use of the Institute's Information for the public is recommended. - Audit and review clinical outcomes of all patients having percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale. 1.3 The procedure should be performed in units where there are arrangements for cardiac surgical support in the event of complications. 1.4 The Department of Health runs the UK Central Cardiac Audit Database (UKCCAD) and clinicians are encouraged to enter all patients onto this database (www.ccad.org.uk). 1.5 Further research will be useful and clinicians are encouraged to collect longer-term follow-up data. The Institute may review the procedure upon publication of further evidence.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.nice.org.uk/ipcat.aspx?c=90648

Year Published: 2005

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England, United Kingdom

Organisation Name: National Institute for Clinical Excellence

Contact Address: MidCity Place, 71 High Holborn, London WC1V 6NA, UK. Tel: +44 020 7067 5800; Fax: +44 020 7067 5801

Contact Name: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Contact Email: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Copyright: National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE)