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Frequency and Size of In Situ Thrombus Within Patent Foramen Ovale

Yan C, Li H, Wang C, Yu H, Guo T, Wan L, Yundan P, Wang L et al.

Stroke, 2023

528 participants

Abstract

BACKGROUND: High-resolution optical coherence tomography can detect in situ thrombi within patent foramen ovale (PFO), which can become a dangerous embolic source. This study aimed to investigate the frequency and size of in situ thrombus within PFO using optical coherence tomography.

METHODS: The cross-sectional study was conducted at Fuwai Hospital (Beijing, China) between 2020 and 2021. From 528 consecutive patients with PFO, 117 (age, 34.33 [SD, 11.30] years) without known vascular risk factors were included; according to PFO-related symptoms, they were divided into the stroke (n=43, including 5 patients with transient ischemic attack), migraine (n=49) and asymptomatic (n=25) groups. Optical coherence tomography was used to evaluate in situ thrombi and abnormal endocardium within PFO. Univariable analysis and a logistic model were used to evaluate the association between stroke and in situ thrombus; age, sex, body mass index, and antithrombotic therapy were included as covariates.

RESULTS: Antithrombotic therapy was used more frequently in the stroke group than in the migraine group (76.7% versus 12.2%; P<0.001). In situ PFO thrombi were detected in 36 (83.7%), 28 (57.1%), and 0 (0.0%) patients from the stroke, migraine, and asymptomatic groups, respectively (P<0.001). Between the stroke and migraine groups, there was no significant difference in the median (interquartile range) thrombus number per patient (7 [3-12] versus 2 [0-10]; P=0.199), maximum thrombus diameter…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a clinical trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 528 participants or records.

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