A Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is common and usually causes no symptoms. For some divers, however, it can offer a pathway for venous nitrogen bubbles to reach the arterial circulation.
A Patent Foramen Ovale is a small opening between the right and left atria. Around 25–30% of adults have a PFO; in most people it causes no symptoms and requires no treatment.
Having a PFO does not by itself determine what someone should do. Its relevance depends on clinical context and should be reviewed by an appropriate doctor.
The concern is not the opening alone, but what may pass through it during or after decompression.
During ascent, nitrogen bubbles can form in the venous circulation.
Normally, venous bubbles pass through the lungs, where they are filtered safely.
With a PFO, bubbles may move from the right atrium to the left and enter systemic circulation.
Potentially relevant to certain forms of decompression illness.
The report supports discussion with a GP, cardiologist or UKDMC-approved diving doctor.
Agitated saline is observed at rest and with provocation to assess whether bubbles cross from the right to the left side of the heart.
Your report can be shared with the clinician best placed to interpret the findings in the context of your health and diving.
For your general medical record and any wider clinical context.
For advice on the relevance of findings to your diving activities.
Where specialist cardiology review is already involved or advised.
These clinicians will advise on the relevance of the findings to diving. DiveEcho provides the imaging and report; it does not replace personalised diving medical advice.
Arrange a dive-specific assessment or contact DiveEcho with a service question.