What is the purpose of the DEFENSE-PFO trial?
The purpose of the DEFENSE-PFO trial is to investigate the effectiveness of patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure or anticoagulation versus antiplatelet therapy for the prevention of cryptogenic stroke in individuals with a high-risk PFO. The trial included over 800 patients with cryptogenic stroke, aged 18-60 years, who had a PFO identified by transthoracic echocardiography and at least one clinical risk factor for stroke. The primary outcome of the trial was the occurrence of recurrent stroke or death within 24 months. Secondary outcomes included the occurrence of ischemic stroke, disability, and death from any cause. The results of the trial showed that PFO closure was more effective than antiplatelet therapy in preventing recurrent stroke or death within 24 months. Additionally, PFO closure was associated with a lower risk of ischemic stroke, disability, and death from any cause. 