Some studies have found that patent foramen ovales (PFOs) are more common in people with unexplained strokes and migraines with aura. This does not mean that everyone who has PFO will experience a stroke or mini-stroke.Patent foramen ovale (PFO) or hole in the heart, affects millions of people and can cause a stroke. If you have a PFO and low blood oxygen levels or an unexplained stroke, you may need a procedure to close the hole. Stroke is the major potential complication of PFO. People who have a PFO are slightly more likely to have a stroke than people who do not. Most strokes do not result from a PFO. Even people who have a PFO often have strokes for other reasons. However, it may cause serious complications under certain circumstances. Objective. Typically, a PFO causes no problems.