Is there a link between migraine and a heart condition (PFO)?

Main Category: Headache / Migraine
Article Date: 18 Jan 2005 - 11:00 PDT


A new trial is being carried out in the UK called MIST, which will establish whether there is a connection between a common heart defect, called a patent foramen ovale (PFO), and migraine. PFOs are present in 15-25% of the general population and studies indicate that the occurrence among sufferers of migraine with aura could be as high as 50%.

The trial will evaluate whether closing a PFO using a non-surgical procedure and a device called a STARFlex® Septal Repair Implant will resolve migraine. Patients who have had the defect closed for reasons other than migraine have reported cessation in migraine or an improvement in terms of severity and frequency. Details of preliminary studies in this area can be viewed on the MIST trial website (http://www.migraine-MIST.org).

These studies, while compelling, are not conclusive and closure of the PFO is not proven as a treatment for migraine. The MIST Trial will be the first ever study to enrol patients because they are migraine sufferers and to compare results between those who have their PFO closed and those who don't.

The initial response to the study has been excellent. Many MAA members have already visited the trial website (http://www.migraine-MIST.org) to find out more about the trial and to complete a questionnaire which gives immediate feedback as to whether the visitor might be suitable for inclusion. If you do not have access to the internet you can telephone the MAA office on 0870 050 5898 for more information and to complete the screening questionnaire with a member of staff.

I would like to emphasise that by completing the questionnaire or by contacting the MAA for more information on the trial, you are not making any commitment to be involved. The staged approach to enrolment allows several opportunities for consultation and was praised by the Ethics Committee who approved the trial. You will not need to give a reason if you decide to withdraw from the trial at any point.

If you are interested in finding out more, please take a look at the trial website http://www.migraine-MIST.org or CONTACT THE MAA who have booklets and other information available. The MAA can also refer suitable patients to a migraine specialist participating in the trial for an initial discussion.

Migraine Action Association

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