Patent foramen ovale occurs in about 1 in 4 people. Most people with the condition never know they have it. A patent foramen ovale is often discovered during tests for other health problems.
2) The foramen magnum is the opening in the bottom of the skull through which the spinal cord exits. "Widely patent" means that is is of normal size. 3) This term means there is a bit of extra bone growth around the openings in the spinal column through which the nerve roots from the spinal cord emerge.
Definition. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a hole between the left and right atria (upper chambers) of the heart. This hole exists in everyone before birth, but most often closes shortly after being born. PFO is what the hole is called when it fails to close naturally after a baby is born.
A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a hole in the heart that didn't close the way it should after birth. The hole is a small flaplike opening between the upper heart chambers. The upper chambers of the heart are called the atria.
Definition. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a hole between the left and right atria (upper chambers) of the heart. This hole exists in everyone before birth, but most often closes shortly after being born.
In a medical context, the term "patent" refers to something being open or unblocked. When used in reference to the spinal canal and foramina, it means that these passages in the spine are clear and not obstructed, allowing for normal flow and movement of fluids and nerves.
PFO is common, presenting in about one in four people. But more than 95% of those with the condition will never find out, as most don't suffer PFO symptoms or health issues. Heart specialists don't often need to diagnose or treat PFO in healthy patients.
Most PFOs don't need to be closed. Most PFOs cause no symptoms or complications. Larger PFOs may cause stroke. People with symptomatic or large PFOs may benefit from a procedure to close the hole.