Complications such as stroke and embolism may occur after surgery for patent foramen ovale. Care should be taken to avoid dental or invasive procedures, take medication as prescribed, and have regular follow-ups.
Under normal circumstances, the foramen ovale will gradually close after birth. If the foramen ovale has not closed by the time the infant is >3 years old, it is called patent foramen ovale; it is mainly treated by surgery, and there is a risk of complications such as stroke, thrombus or embolism of the occluder, pericardial effusion, and so on, after the surgery.
After surgery, drugs such as heparin and other anticoagulation and aspirin plus clopidogrel should be used to prevent infective endocarditis according to the doctor’s instruction. Dental or other invasive procedures should be avoided for six months after surgery.
It is also important to have a regular review and seek medical attention in case of discomfort.