Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and branch retinal artery occlusion after transcatheter closure of foramen ovale - a case report
Abstract
This case report illustrates delayed ophthalmologic complications after transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale in a young patient. A 39-year-old woman underwent transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale with subsequent delayed (after four years) development of the anterior ischemic optic neuropathy in the left eye, possibly due to paradoxical embolization.
The patient's condition was further complicated by branch retinal artery occlusion in the same eye. The objective finding and subjective problems improved following optic nerve sheath decompression and a series of vasodilator infusions.
Physicians should be aware of possible simultaneous occurrence of anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and retinal artery occlusion in young patients, even several years after patent foramen ovale closure, and of possible effectiveness of intensive vasodilation therapy and early decompression of the optic nerve sheaths.