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What is the Patent Foramen Ovale? – Video
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Video at a Glance
- Patent foramen ovale is a condition where the foramen ovale doesn’t seal shut after birth.
- In this video, the purpose of the foramen ovale is explained.
- When the infant’s lungs inflate, the pressure should push the foramen ovale shut.
- Normally, the foramen ovale seals closed after the baby is born.
- Around 25% of adults have a foramen ovale. Most of the time, this isn’t a problem because the heart’s pressure keeps the blood flowing normally.
- Diagnosis includes an echocardiogram.
- Only some patients will need treatment for patent foramen ovale.
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