Most people with a patent foramen ovale don't need treatment. This efficient approach may be advantageous in optimizing workflow and minimizing hospital occupancy.4ICON Development Solutions, San Antonio, TX, USA, 5The Medicines Company, Parsippany, NJ,. Structural cardiology program in San Antonio. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a hole between the left and right atria (upper chambers) of the heart. This hole exists in everyone before birth. The foramen ovale is a hole in the wall between the left and right atria of every human fetus. This hole allows blood to bypass the fetal lungs. Contrast study during the transesophageal examination increases the sensitivity to detect potential sources of emboli such as patent foramen ovale. Most fees can be paid online in the user portal.