Factors Affecting Shunt Dynamics in Stroke Patients with Patent Foramen Ovale
Author Information
Author(s): Tanislav Christian, Puille Maximilian, Grebe Mathias, Sieweke Nicole, Allendörfer Jens, Pabst Wolfgang, Kaps Manfred, Reichenberger Frank
Primary Institution: Justus Liebig University Giessen
Hypothesis
What factors are associated with a reduction in right to left shunt in patients with cryptogenic stroke and patent foramen ovale?
Conclusion
A longer time delay between the initial stroke event and follow-up assessment increases the likelihood of detecting a reduction in right to left shunt.
Supporting Evidence
- 27 out of 39 patients showed a reduction in right to left shunt.
- Silent pulmonary embolism was found in 46.2% of patients.
- Factors like deep vein thrombosis and atrial septum aneurysm were not linked to shunt dynamics.
Takeaway
This study looked at patients who had a specific type of stroke and a heart condition. It found that waiting longer for a follow-up check can help show if their heart condition improved.
Methodology
Patients were assessed for right to left shunt using echocardiography and Doppler ultrasound, with follow-up assessments conducted after a median of 12 months.
Potential Biases
The assessments were conducted by experts blinded to clinical data, reducing potential bias.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and was retrospective, which may affect the reliability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The median age of participants was 40 years, with 61.5% being female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.013
Statistical Significance
p = 0.013
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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