Abstract 13501: Patent Ductus Arteriosus Catheterization Closure in Preterm Infants: A Descriptive Study of an Institutional Experience

Abstract

Introduction: A patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in a preterm infant can lead to respiratory insufficiency and chronic lung disease as well as necrotizing enterocolitis due to systemic hypoperfusion. Recently, catheter-based PDA closure has emerged as an appealing alternative to invasive surgical ligation in preterm infants; however, evidence to support this procedure in infancy, particularly in the premature population, is still evolving. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted to collect information regarding demographics, neonatal and maternal clinical characteristics, and procedural and post-catheterization data. Inclusion criteria included infants born at <32 weeks gestational age whose PDAs were closed via catheterization at our institution between January 2017 and August 2019. Infants with critical congenital heart disease and/or lethal congenital anomalies were excluded from this study. Results: Twenty-seven patients were included in our study. Indications for PDA closure in our patient population included hemodynamically significant PDA on echocardiogram, difficulty weaning respiratory support, poor feeding and weight gain, and development of NEC. Median gestational age and weight were 26 weeks and 820 g (ranging from 23 to 30 weeks and 400 to 1540 g, respectively). Most infants tolerated the procedure well and without serious adverse outcomes. One infant developed an intimal flap post-catheterization that resolved without invasive intervention, and 1 infant developed a PAH crisis after PDA closure with resolution of PAH prior to discharge. Statistically significant associations were found between PDA plug closures and decreased oxygen requirements, decreased pulmonary artery hypertension, decreased diuretic requirements, and decreased vasodilator requirements by time of discharge. Conclusions: Successful device closures of PDAs are feasible and safe, and preliminary findings show promising outcomes without mortality or long-term morbidity following transcatheter PDA closure.