Percutaneous transcatheter coil occlusion of the patent ductus arteriosus aided by the nitinol snare: further observations.

PURPOSE

To assess the safety and efficacy of the nitinol snare to aid in the delivery of a Gianturco coil in percutaneous occlusion of a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

METHODS

Seventeen patients (mean age 8.2 years) underwent catheterization and coil occlusion of a PDA (mean minimum diameter 1.9 mm). A nitinol snare was used to deliver and position the coil in the ductus.

RESULTS

A single Gianturco coil was placed successfully in all patients, resulting in complete ductal occlusion documented by aortic angiography. Color echocardiography documented a trivial residual shunt in one patient who had no audible cardiac murmurs following the procedure. There was no hemodynamic or echocardiographic evidence of left pulmonary artery obstruction. There were no complications and all patients were discharged within 24 hr following the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous coil occlusion of the PDA is safe and effective. Snare-controlled coil delivery eliminates the risk of coil dislodgement and optimizes coil position.