What Are the Treatments for a Patent Foramen Ovale?
The foramen ovale is a flap-like opening in the wall that separates the two upper chambers of the heart. Before birth, the foramen ovale allows a circulatory bypass of the lungs, which the baby is not yet using. Normally, the foramen ovale closes shortly after birth. Patent foramen ovale describes the condition wherein the foramen ovale remains open. Treatment for patent foramen ovale is needed only if the condition causes complications.
