The conventional approach in this country is not to proceed with the PFO until at least six to eight weeks have elapsed from the time of the stroke. Our protocol also dictates that the procedure is not done until and unless there has been a second stroke, except under certain conditions.

The condition is actually fairly common during gestation, but often corrects itself. In individuals who have it, it may go unnoticed unless a stroke occurs, generally in a very young person, which triggers further exploration. Mr. Sharon was definitely way above the average age for the PFO procedure, and many of us believed that there were actually other causes for his stroke.

The rate of success is high, under the appropriate circumstances.

Again, we look at Mr. Sharon's age, which suggests that there were other conditions existing that may have caused his stroke. Also, in this country we use the procedure very cautiously. The guidelines are very prudent and restrictive.

They were very happy about the way they were treated, the respect they were shown.

When it doesn't happen for 20 years it becomes an event.