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The wonderful fetal heart design: Why does the fetal heart have a mysterious opening?
During fetal development, a special structure called the foramen ovale allows blood to flow between the left and right atria, a process that is critical for the fetus in the womb. The presence of the foramen ovale allows the fetus to bypass the underdeveloped lungs and obtain oxygen from the mother. However, after birth, this opening should naturally close in order for the heart to function properly. But why does this mysterious opening appear in the fetal heart?
The function of the foramen ovale is mainly to maintain effective blood circulation of the fetus in the uterus. Before birth, the fetus's lungs are not functioning and therefore cannot breathe. At this time, the mother's placenta is responsible for transporting oxygen to the fetus. Therefore, the presence of the foramen ovale allows blood to flow directly from the right atrium into the left atrium, bypassing the lungs.
In the early stages of fetal development, the opening of the foramen ovale is key to the operation of life. As the fetus grows, subsequent changes are also crucial.
When the fetus is born and takes its first natural breath of air from the lungs, pressure on the left side of the heart increases, which normally causes the foramen ovale to close completely. However, about 25% of people have a persistent foramen ovale (PFO) that remains open into adulthood. This condition can lead to abnormal blood flow between the right and left atrium, causing heart malformations and increasing the risk of future cardiovascular disease.
The functions and risks of the foramen ovale
The importance of the foramen ovale during the fetal period is undoubted, but with changes after birth, if this opening is not closed, it may lead to a variety of heart diseases. For example, a persistent foramen ovale may lead to an increased risk of stroke even in the absence of obvious cardiac pathology. Studies have shown that the proportion of persistent foramen ovale among people with a history of stroke is significantly higher than that in the general population.
Experts emphasize that the risk of persistent foramen ovale, which may lead to serious consequences in some cases, is increasing.
Types of foramen ovale and their effects
The main types of foramen ovale can be divided into several categories, the most common of which is ostium secundum defect. This type of defect accounts for approximately 6% to 10% of all congenital heart diseases. Other types of foramen ovale defects include primordial foramen ovale defects, venous orifice defects, etc., which are often associated with defects in other cardiac structures.
In severe cases, these defects can lead to heart dysfunction, pulmonary hypertension and other complications, and may eventually develop into Eisenmenger's syndrome. The progression of this disease can lead to a reversal of pressure between the right and left heart, leading to complications such as hypoxia.
Early detection and intervention
Doctors usually detect foramen ovale problems during fetal or infancy through ultrasound or auscultation. Management options vary depending on the size and type of defect, and some cases require surgical repair.
Through early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, serious health problems that may occur later can be avoided.
Overall, the existence and function of the foramen ovale are crucial to the health of the fetus. However, its opening may also become a concern for future heart health to some extent. Therefore, it is important to understand the function of the foramen ovale and how to detect and treat it appropriately after birth. What kind of discoveries and challenges do you think there will be in the future regarding this mysterious opening?
