What were the results of the updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials regarding patent foramen ovale closure or medical therapy for cryptogenic ischemic stroke?
The updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials regarding patent foramen ovale closure or medical therapy for cryptogenic ischemic stroke found that patent foramen ovale closure was associated with a reduced risk of recurrent stroke, a lower risk of developing a new ischemic lesion, and a lower risk of death. However, patent foramen ovale closure was also associated with a higher risk of atrial fibrillation, and a higher risk of major bleeding compared to medical therapy. It was also found that patent foramen ovale closure was associated with a lower risk of disability than medical therapy. 