A PFO closure is a procedure that can help lower the risk of a stroke for some people. 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. Our experienced specialists offer a full range of treatments for PFO, including minimally invasive procedures using the latest FDA-approved devices. Most people with a patent foramen ovale don't need treatment. Through the catheter, the cardiologist will thread a small PFO closure device into your heart and place it in the hole to seal it closed. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is an anatomical interatrial communication with potential for righttoleft shunt. Discusses patent foramen ovale, which is an opening in the septum of the heart between the upper right and left chambers. Covers diagnosis and treatment. PFO (patent foramen ovale) is a communication between the right and left atria that fails to fuse after birth and a flap is present that can open and close.