Robotically Assisted Patent Foramen Ovale Repair

Overview and Facts about Robotically Assisted Patent Foramen Ovale Repair

A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a hole that develops in the heart. This hole occurs as a fetus develops, but it usually closes before birth. If the hole doesn't close on its own, your doctor may recommend cardiac surgery.

Some forms of PFO repair are performed with robotic surgical systems. These systems offer added precision, along with a quicker recovery. Most patients recover well from PFO repair and experience no lasting health risks.

What to Expect with Robotically Assisted Patent Foramen Ovale Repair

Before undergoing surgery, your doctor will evaluate your health. As part of this evaluation, your doctor may order a variety of cardiovascular tests.

These tests help your doctor choose the right treatment. You may need to make lifestyle changes before surgery, like quitting smoking. Your doctor might also recommend stopping some medications, like blood thinners.

Your medical team will let you know how to prepare for surgery. Before your procedure, your team administers anesthesia to make you sleep through the procedure. Your medical team might also give you medication to prevent infections or blood clots.

Next, your team will set you up on a heart-lung machine to keep your blood circulating while they work on yoru heart. Your surgeon makes tiny incisions between your ribs and inserts a narrow camera, used to locate the hole in your heart.

Your surgeon inserts robotic tools through the incision and operates them via a computer. The surgeon remains in control of the robotic system at all times. Next, they close the opening in your heart, remove the tools and seal the incision.

Finally, the team takes you off the heart-lung machine and moves you to a recovery room. Most patients stay in the hospital for about three days after their procedure.

What are the Side Effects of Robotically Assisted Patent Foramen Ovale Repair?

After surgery, you may feel tired or groggy. The breathing tube on the heart-lung machine can also cause a sore throat. These symptoms usually disappear after a few days.

You may experience some itching or tenderness around your incisions. Let your doctor know if you notice oozing, pus or redness. These may be symptoms of postsurgical infection.

Your doctor will let you know when it's safe to resume your normal activities. Avoid lifting heavy objects for a few weeks after surgery. Putting too much strain on your heart or incision can cause injury.

What are the Risks of Robotically Assisted Patent Foramen Ovale Repair?

PFO repair is generally safe. Robotic surgical systems also offer better outcomes and a lower risk of complications.

However, all surgery carries some risk. PFO repair may cause:

• Arrhythmia
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Stroke

If your doctor recommends surgery, they are confident that the benefits of the procedure outweigh the risks. Your doctor can help you to evaluate the risks of your PFO and to choose the right treatment.