Echocardiographic guidance for transcatheter coil occlusion of patent ductus arteriosus in the catheterization laboratory

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of transthoracic echocardiography as a guide to monitor the completeness of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) occlusion immediately after coil implantation. In all, 52 patients who underwent Gianturco coil implantation for PDA occlusion were evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography within 15 minutes after the first coil implantation in the catheterization laboratory. According to Doppler echocardiographic findings, these patients were classified into 3 groups: group 1, complete occlusion without residual shunt; group 2, a residual PDA diameter < 1 mm and no continuous waveforms detected; and group 3, a residual PDA diameter ≥ 1 mm or continuous waveforms. There were 34 patients in group 1, 10 patients in group 2, and 8 patients in group 3. In a 12-month follow-up the complete occlusion rate was 100%, 90%, and 87.5% in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. We conclude that immediate Doppler echocardiography is useful in assessing the status of residual PDA just after coil implantation. Residual shunt < 1 mm and lack of continuous waveform on Doppler scan indicate sufficient ductal closure of PDA.