u/max_w25

I (36M) had an embolic ischemic stroke few months ago. They found that I have a patent foramen ovale (pfo). The cardiologist said the TEE results shows a large pfo and recommeded pfo closure.

I was asked by the cardiologist to choose between the conventional method of closure with a occluder device or a newer method known as NobleStitch. I told the cardiologist I am leaned towards the device method based on the existing long-term research and proven evidence compared to the newer method. The cardiologist mentioned that there is a chance that the NobleStitch may require a 2nd surgery if the pfo is not close completely. I definitely prefer not to go though a 2nd surgery but I am now questioning myself if I made the right decision after reading some of the bad experience from redditors who had the device procedure, especially the post-procedure effects like AFib, palpitations and other issues.

I am also a nervous wreck when it comes to needles, hospital and medical procedures as well. Could anyone walk though the details of the procedure? Was it scary?

36M, 5ft4, 130lb, non-smoker. On aspirin and atorvastatin.

I was ordered by my hemotologist to do a CT scan with contrast on my lung. This is the 2nd time I have done a CT scan with contrast due to my recent embolic stroke (Pfo related). During my 1st scan on my neck and brain, I did not feel any out of normal sensation except the expected warm and peeing-like feeling.

But the 2nd time, I had a sharp burning and needle like pain sensation at the IV location during the contrast injection, and my heart began pounding very fast as the contrast was going in. I never felt such pounding in my life before and I was shaking with anxiety after the scan. The pounding ceased after I sat down for around 20mins post-scan.

I am trying to figure out why I had such difference in experience. Note that I have always been a nervous wreck with needles and medical procedures but never this bad. I do wonder if it was just a panic attack?

For comparison, yhe difference between the 1st and 2nd scan were:

- Immediately post-stroke (1st scan) vs. few weeks post-stroke (2nd scan)

- Head & neck (1st scan) vs. lungs (2nd scan)

- Right arm IV (1st scan) vs. left arm IV (2nd scan)

- Had to hold breath at intervals (2nd scan)

- Both arms lowered (1st scan) vs. elevated (2nd scan)