New study on PFO and migraine to be started

You’ve probably already heard about the connection between migraine and the common heart defect known as Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO).  (If not, check out this article from the September 2003 issue of HeadWay)  For several months the MIST Trial has been going on in the UK to formally study how repairing this defect may stop migraine attacks in some people.

Now, across the pond in the USA, the FDA has given conditional approval for a study in America.  St Jude Medical, Inc, will be starting a study to learn more about this link.  A simple surgery can close this hole in the heart, and may eliminate migraine attacks in some people.

Many people have this defect and don’t even know it.  We’re looking forward to hearing the results of the studies that are being done.