[Cardiac catheterization of neonates and young infants using a flow-directed balloon catheter (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Cardiology
• Interventional Cardiology
• Neonatal Medicine

Context:

• Cardiac catheterization is crucial for diagnosing congenital heart disease in infants.
• Traditional methods carry risks, especially in neonates with complex anomalies.
• The Swan-Ganz-flow-directed balloon catheter offers potential for improved safety and efficacy.

Purpose:

• To describe a specialized cardiac catheterization technique for neonates and young infants.
• To evaluate its utility in diagnosing complex congenital heart anomalies.
• To assess the feasibility and safety of performing selective aortography using this method.

Summary:

• A novel technique using a Swan-Ganz-flow-directed balloon catheter was employed in 68 neonates and young infants.
• The catheter was advanced from the left ventricle into the aorta (or pulmonary artery in transposition of great arteries).
• Selective aortography was successful in 29 patients, demonstrating the technique's versatility.

Impact:

• This technique allows for complete evaluation of complex cardiac anomalies in neonates.
• It facilitates selective aortography, avoiding retrograde arterial catheterization.
• It reduces risks of cardiac perforation and myocardial staining associated with conventional catheters.