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Updated: Aug 29, 2026

Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure
Published on: February 8, 2022
Reactivity of the ductus arteriosus: Implications for transcatheter therapy
John S Lozier1, Collin G Cowley
1Division of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah, Primary Children's Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
Insights
Transcatheter coil occlusion of a patent ductus arteriosus can lead to inadvertent coil embolization due to ductal constriction and relaxation. This case highlights potential risks in treating this common congenital heart defect.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a common congenital heart defect requiring intervention.
- Transcatheter coil occlusion is a standard treatment for PDA.
Observation:
- A case of a 13-month-old boy undergoing transcatheter coil occlusion of PDA is presented.
- The procedure involved ductal constriction followed by relaxation.
- This sequence led to inadvertent coil embolization.
Findings:
- Inadvertent coil embolization occurred during transcatheter PDA occlusion.
- The event was associated with dynamic changes in ductal diameter.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of monitoring ductal dynamics during coil embolization.
- It suggests potential technical modifications to prevent coil migration.
- Further literature review is needed to refine transcatheter PDA treatment strategies.
Abstract:
We report our experience in a 13-month-old boy undergoing transcatheter coil occlusion of a patent ductus arteriosus. Constriction of the ductus arteriosus with subsequent relaxation resulted in inadvertent coil embolization. This case report and review of the literature have implications for transcatheter treatment of persistent ductus arteriosus.

