[Coil embolization of persistent ductus arteriosus]

From September 1994 to January 1996, 57 patients were admitted to Brompton Hospital for catheter closure of persistent ductus arteriosus. Umbrella closure was attempted in 22 patients and coil closure in 35. The duct was closed by a device in 55 of 57 patients (96.4%). Two patients were referred for surgical closure, one after failure of the umbrella closure and one after coil embolization to a branch of the pulmonary artery. Two additional coils embolized to pulmonary artery branches. Both coils were successfully retrieved by a snare, and the procedure then finished successfully. We recommend the use of coils for closure of small ducts, and for residual leak after previous umbrella closure. This is also a promising method for closure of larger ducts.