Preterm PDA Device closure using the KONAR MFO device in a resource-limited centre of North-East India: a Case series

Percutaneous device closure is the preferred method for closing patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), even in preterm infants. We report our experience using the new KONAR-MFO™ ventricular septal defect occluder for transcatheter closure of preterm patent ductus arteriosus as an alternative device in resource-limited centres.

Case 1: A preterm baby with Down's syndrome and tracheobronchomalacia was born at 29 weeks, weighing 1.68 kg with multiple cardiac defects, including a 4 mm PDA and a 6 mm mid-muscular ventricular septal defect (VSD), stuck on a ventilator. Case 2: Another preterm baby born at 35 weeks, weighing 1.89 kg, with anorectal malformation and a right inguinal hernia. The echocardiogram revealed a 4 mm PDA with severe PAH. In both cases, the patent ductus arteriosus was occluded using a 6 mm × 4 mm Konar MFO device on day 14 (case 1) and day 20 (case 2).

The baby (case 1) was weaned off the ventilator and discharged on the 28th postnatal day at 2.09 kg. As for case 2, the baby was weaned off the ventilator within 2 days and discharged on day 30 at 2.23 kg. A follow-up echocardiogram of both cases confirmed a well-positioned device with no obstructions. At 18 months, in the follow-up, both babies were gaining weight and thriving.

The KONAR MFO device is a safe and effective option for patent ductus arteriosus closure in preterm infants, even in resource-limited settings. Its versatility accommodates various duct sizes and morphologies, and its self-expandable design ensures easy deployment, addressing the anatomical challenges often seen in preterm infants.