[Transcatheter closing of patent ductus arteriosus using detachable coils]

Various devices have been developed for the percutaneous closure of persistent patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). In recent years Gianturco coils have become increasingly widespread for this purpose. Poor control during positioning is a major disadvantage of Gianturco coils, with resultant embolization of coils and residual shunts. Modifications to improve the positioning of coils have been developed. Very recently a new screwing detachable coil is available (Cook Cardiology, Europe). Between January 1996 and March 1999, 24 consecutive patients with PDA underwent cardiac catheterization. Twenty cases were judged suitable for this procedure, on the base of diameter and morphology of the ductus. Three cases were excluded because of the ductal diameter was too large (> 4.2 mm) and one because of its morphology (type B). In 19 patients a single coil was positioned, while in 1 case 2 coils were simultaneously used. In 19 cases (95%) complete closure was obtained (in 15 cases immediately, in 2 after 24 hours, in 2 after 1 month). One case showed a residual shunt and a second coil was applied eighteen months later with complete closure. So, considering also this last case, the closure was achieved in 100%. There were neither embolization or other complications. In conclusion, screwing detachable coil for PDA closure is a safe, very effective and at low cost technique. Therefore nowadays this procedure represents the method of choice for occlusion of small PDA (minimal diameter < or = 4 mm).