Authors: Weber, Frank; Goriup, Alexander

Source: Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Volume 78, Number 2, February 2007 , pp. 135-136(2)

Publisher: Aerospace Medical Association

Abstract:

Weber F, Goriup A. Prevalence of right-to-left shunts in active fighter pilots. Aviat Space Environ Med 2007; 78:135-136.

Background: Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a risk factor for cerebrovascular accidents and provides a potential mechanism for paradoxical systemic embolization of venous gas bubbles produced after altitude decompression. The objective of the study is to describe the prevalence of PFO and of possible subsequent brain lesions in active military fighter pilots. Methods: A sample of 52 healthy active fighter pilots was assessed with transcranial Doppler sonography, transesophageal echocardiography, and cranial MRI. Results: Significant right to left shunting occurred in 17% (9/52; 95% CI 8.7% to 30.8%); all shunts were due to a PFO. Cranial MRI was normal in each case. Conclusion: In this sample, prevalence of PFO lies within the expected range. There is no evidence that military flying in pilots who carry PFOs leads to brain damage. Screening for PFO is not recommended.

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Keywords: PFO; stroke; epidemiology; altitude

Document Type: Short communication

Publication date: 2007-02-01

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• The peer-reviewed monthly journal, Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine (ASEM) provides contact with physicians, life scientists, bioengineers, and medical specialists working in both basic medical research and in its clinical applications. It is the most used and cited journal in its field. ASEM is distributed to more than 80 nations.
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