Percutaneous closure of patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants: A French national survey

Transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in premature infants has been shown to be feasible in small series. Outcomes in larger series are currently lacking.All premature infants ( 36 weeks GA) who underwent transcatheter PDA closure were included in a multicenter French national survey. Demographic data (gestational age [GA], birth weight [BW]) and procedural data (weight [PW], age at procedure [AP], procedural success, fluoroscopy time, and type of device) were collected. Outcomes and procedural complications were reviewed.Between September 2013 and June 2017, 102 patients were included. In 71 cases, PDA pharmacological closure had been attempted. Mean GA was 27 ± 2.9 weeks. Mean BW and PW were 1,040 ± 715 g and 1,543 ± 698 g, respectively. Mean AP was 39 ± 26 days. Number of premature infants1 kg, between 1 and 2 kg, and 2 kg was 21, 59, and 22, respectively. Mean fluoroscopic time was 6.5 min. Success rate was 99%. Device- or procedure-related complications were reported in nine patients (8.9%) including three LPA stenoses (requiring surgery in two and balloon dilatation in one), two neo-coarctations (one requiring subsequent surgery), and three instances of tricuspid valve regurgitation at follow-up. Seven deaths were reported, none being related to the procedure. Mean follow-up was 39.75 ± 13.1 months.In this large series of premature infants undergoing transcatheter PDA closure, it was demonstrated that this procedure can be performed successfully in the vast majority of patients with an acceptable complication rate. Future efforts should focus on minimizing complications, particularly device-related vascular stenoses.