Foramen ovale is necessary for fetal development. Mother's umbilical cord blood enters baby's left chambers of heart through foramen ovale, providing oxygen and nutrients required for fetal development. Foramen ovale usually closes within in the first year after birth. If it is still not closed after a child is 3 years old, it is called patent foramen ovale. Even some adults have patent foramen ovale. Generally no treatment is required.
How is Patent foramen ovale treated in practice?