Study investigates Gore-tex-type device to stop strokes and mi...(any signs or symptoms and a PFO can go u...),Health
any signs or symptoms, and a PFO can go undetected through adulthood. It is not until a patient experiences a stroke that a PFO defect is often diagnosed. Many of these strokes occur in people under the age of 50.
"Stroke has many causes. Unfortunately, in approximately twenty-five percent of cases, we do not find a specific cause. It has been suggested that in these cases, which are referred to as cryptogenic stroke, PFO might be a potential risk factor," said Dr. Vivien Lee, stroke neurologist and study co-investigator at Rush. "The question we are trying to answer with this study is whether a PFO closure can reduce the risk of recurrent stroke."
The purpose of the study is to help patients like Nathan Prince, a 31-year-old truck driver from Justice, Ill., who learned he had a congenital hole in his heart after suffering two strokes in three days.
"I was completely shocked," said Prince. "I kept thinking I am way too young. I never experienced any symptoms. I am pretty athletic and always on the go. All of this seemed so sudden."
Prince was immediately put on anticoagulants and other medication. "I was pretty upset when I found out that I had to take all this medication," said Prince. "I mean, I am a young guy and now I have to take all these medicines and who knows what the long term effects could be."
Prince's neurologist referred him to Rush University Medical Center to see Hijazi. "When Dr. Hijazi explained to me that I could have a procedure that could close up that hole, stop my stroke symptoms and be home the next day, I immediately asked how soon we could do the procedure," said Prince.
The same afternoon as his procedure, Nathan was up, reading, moving around and ready to go home.
"I'm just happy that I won't have to be on all those medications anymore," said Prince.
Currently, the primary treatment option is medical management.
"This study may provide usefu
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| Contact: Deborah Song deb_song@rush.edu 312-942-0588 Rush University Medical Center Source:Eurekalert |
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