Transcatheter Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus: Report of 25 Cases

Between September 1990 and July 1994, 26 transcatheter occlusion of persistently patent ductus arteriosus was attempted in 25 patients using Rashkind umbrella occluder. The patients ages ranged from 2 years to 26 years (median 5.04 years) and patients' weight ranged from 11.5 kg to 52 kg (median 17 kg). In 12 patients a 12 mm and in 12 a 17 mm diameter device were successfully placed inthe ductus (internal diameter average 3.86±1.75 mm, range 2.25 to 9 mm). One procedure was abandoned because of fluoroscopy insufficiency. Significant residual shunt with continuous murmur was present on the postocclusion aortography in 3 of 24 patients. Complete closure of the ductus with implantation of a second occluder device was achieved in one of these 3 patients. Twelve patients had total occlusion and the remaining 9 patients showed minimal residual leaks on postocclusion aortography. No device embolisation occurred. Catheter occlusion of the patent ductus arteriosus using the Rashkind umbrella appears to be a safe and effective method of nonsurgical management.