Percutaneous Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Closure in Very Preterm Infants: Feasibility and Complications

Outcomes of Patent Ductus Arteriosus Closure by Availability of Cardiac Surgeons for Infants Born Preterm

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the treatment strategies for closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and clinical outcomes among very preterm infants based upon the availability of cardiac surgeons in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

STUDY DESIGN

This study retrospectively assessed infants born at 23-29 weeks of gestation who participated in a prior prospective cohort study in Japan. The primary outcome was PDA surgery. The secondary outcomes included mortality and various morbidities, such as intraventricular hemorrhage and chronic lung disease (CLD). Outcomes were compared between with-surgeon and no-surgeon NICUs using generalized linear mixed effect models, adjusted for gestational age, antenatal corticosteroid, small-for-gestational age, and unit patient volume.

RESULTS

This study included 613 infants from 27 NICUs, including 245 from 9 no-surgeon NICUs and 368 from 18 with-surgeon NICUs. Infants received significantly more prophylactic indomethacin in the no-surgeon NICUs than those in the with-surgeon NICUs. The frequency of PDA surgery showed no significant difference between the groups (9.0% vs 12%, adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.56 [95% confidence interval: 0.21-1.51]). CLD was significantly more frequent in no-surgeon NICUs than in with-surgeon NICUs (55% vs 40%, aOR: 3.24 [95% CI 1.45-7.29]).

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of PDA surgery did not differ significantly according to the availability of surgeons. The incidence of CLD was higher in no-surgeon NICUs; however, the risk of unmeasured confounding cannot be excluded due to the observational study design.

Management of Neonatal Limb Ischemia Secondary to Peripheral Arterial Lines: A Systematic Review

Limb ischemia is a rare complication of peripheral arterial lines, but there is inconsistency with management. We aimed to describe the variation in the management of limb ischemia secondary to a peripheral arterial line and to determine a consensus for management. The systematic review consisted of searching PubMed, Scopus, Ovid MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and references of journals using pre-trialed medical subject headings terms and articles. The sources were scrutinized against inclusion and exclusion criteria. Twenty-six articles were included for full-text analysis: seven retrospective reviews and 19 case reports. The most common site of insertion was femoral (30%), followed by radial (25%). Seventy-one percent of the patients were treated medically, 18% surgically, 9% both medically and surgically, and one patient was treated conservatively with debridement and accurate approximation. The majority of interventions were successful in treating limb ischemia, with 91% achieving a good outcome. All patients who received glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) and all surgical interventions, including conservative management, achieved good outcomes. Medical management was successful in 92%, whereas a combined approach of surgical and medical management was successful in 75% of patients. There is wide variation in the management of limb ischemia secondary to peripheral arterial lines. There is apparent success observed with topical 2% GTN and surgical interventions, with thrombolysis and, in case of no improvement, with thrombectomy, across various studies. We recommend that an updated international consensus be reached on the management of neonates with limb ischemia secondary to a peripheral arterial line.

A Challenging Interventional Procedure: Transcatheter Closure of Tubular Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension

Transcatheter closure of the tubular ducts remains the most challenging procedure, with higher complication rates than other types. This study evaluates the characteristics of transcatheter closure of tubular ducts with pulmonary hypertension. 73 patients with tubular ducts who underwent cardiac catheterization for transcatheter PDA closure were analyzed. The mean age and weight were 1.93 ± 2.68 years and 8.83 ± 6.14 kg, respectively. Transcatheter closure was attempted in 72 patients. Four cases (5.5%) were referred to surgery, while the procedure was completed in the remaining (94.5%). Amplatzer duct occluder (ADO) I or Cardiofix duct occluder (CDO) was the most commonly used devices. However, the use of Amplatzer vascular plug (AVP) II raised in recent years. The most common concern was aortic protrusion/stenosis in ADO I/CDO devices, but most regressed during follow-up. Iatrogenic coarctation of the aorta was observed in two with ADO I/CDO. Embolization of the device to the pulmonary artery was observed in three with CDO, AVP II, and AVP I. Significant left pulmonary artery stenosis requiring stenting developed in one after closure with an MVSDO device. Tubular ducts are highly associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension, and transcatheter closure of them is still challenging despite the developing device armamentarium. Although ADO I or similar devices are widely used, off-label devices are usually needed at increasing rates. The AVP II device is unsuitable for short tubular ducts but seems the best option for long ones.

Morbidity and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 2 years in preterm infants undergoing percutaneous transcatheter closure vs. surgical ligation of the PDA

OBJECTIVE

Review a cohort of preterm infants ≤29 weeks of gestation at birth and compare morbidities and neurodevelopmental outcomes based on PDA status and type of PDA closure.

STUDY DESIGN

Single center observational retrospective-prospective case control study of premature infants who had no hsPDA, underwent surgical ligation or percutaneous transcatheter closure of the PDA. Neurodevelopmental testing was done using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development 3rd ed.

RESULTS

The percutaneous transcatheter closure group had an older post menstrual age and greater weight at the time of procedure, and started enteral feeds and achieved room air status at an earlier post procedure day. Infants in the surgical ligation group were more likely to experience vocal cord paralysis. There was no difference in neurodevelopmental outcomes between groups.

CONCLUSION

Waiting for infants to achieve the appropriate size for percutaneous transcatheter closure of the PDA may lead to reduced short-term complications without increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental impairment.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus Occlusion in Premature Infants

Transcatheter ductal closure has proven to be safe and effective to occlude the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in premature infants. We have developed a robust multidisciplinary PDA program. After gaining experience performing transcatheter ductal closure in the cardiac catheterization laboratory, we transitioned to performing the procedure at the patient's bedside in the neonatal intensive care unit using echocardiographic guidance. The bedside approach has the potential to expand this therapy to patients who currently undergo expectant PDA management because of lack of availability of this therapy, and allow for earlier referral, which will reduce time of exposure to this pathologic shunt.

Mobile bedside ductus arteriosus closure in severely premature neonates using only echocardiographic guidance

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter closure of the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in premature infants is currently dependent on fluoroscopic guidance and transportation to the catheterization laboratory.

AIM

We describe a new echocardiographically guided technique to allow our team to move to the bedside at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of the referring center for percutaneous treatment of PDA in premature infants.

METHODS

This is a single-center, retrospective, primarily descriptive analysis. Clinical details about the procedure, its outcomes, and complications were collected.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight neonates with a median weight of 1110 g (range 730-2800) and postnatal age of 28 days (range 9-95) underwent percutaneous PDA closure. Five of them were treated in our center with ultrasound guidance only and the other 53 in 18 different neonatology units in 12 towns. The median duration of the procedure was 40 min (range 20-195 min). There were no procedural deaths. There was one residual shunt for 3 weeks, in all other patients the duct closed completely in the first few hours after the intervention. In one patient the procedure had to be interrupted because of a pericardial effusion which had to be drained, the PDA was closed successfully interventionally 5 days later. One device-related aortic coarctation had to be stented. One embolization and one late migration occurred and required treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Echocardiographically guided transcatheter closure of the PDA in prematures was repeatedly possible and allowed that the procedure is performed at the bedside at the NICU with an acceptable rate of complications.

Correlation between the Closure Time of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Preterm Infants and Long-Term Neurodevelopmental Outcome

In patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in preterm infants, the relationship between treatment timing and long-term developmental prognosis remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between the age in days when ductus arteriosus closure occurred and long-term development. Preterm infants with a birth weight of less than 1500 g who were admitted to our NICU over a period of 9 years (2011-2019) and were diagnosed with PDA were included. A new version of the K-type developmental test for corrected ages of 1.5 and 3 years was used as an index of development. The relationship between the duration of PDA and the developmental index was evaluated using Pearson's correlation coefficient, and multiple regression analysis was performed. Development quotient (DQ) at the ages of 1.5 and 3 years showed a correlation with the PDA closure date and the standard deviation (SD) value of the term birth weight. Multiple regression analysis showed a positive correlation of the DQ at 1.5 and 3 years with the SD value of the term birth weight and a negative correlation with the PDA closure date. In addition, a stronger correlation was found in the "posture/motor" sub-item at 3 years. On the other hand, the analysis including preterm infants without PDA showed that preterm infants with PDA closure on the 6th day or later after birth had a significantly lower 3-year-old DQ than preterm infants with a PDA exposure within 5 days. In conclusion, it is suggested that the decrease in cerebral blood flow due to PDA in preterm infants has an adverse effect on long-term neurodevelopment. Appropriate interventions, including surgical treatment for PDA in preterm infants without delay, ideally within 5 days of birth, may be effective in improving the developmental prognosis.

Transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm infants: results from a single-center cohort

Objective

To assess the success rate of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) transcatheter closure in preterm infants and to describe the nature of procedural adverse events and short-term clinical status.

Study design

All the preterm infants with PDA transcatheter closure were evaluated retrospectively between July 2019 and March 2023 in a single level III neonatal intensive care unit in France. The procedure was performed in the catheterization laboratory using venous canulation. We retrospectively collected data about the patients' characteristics, procedural outcomes and complications.

Results

Twenty-five infants born between 23.4 and 32.0 weeks of gestational age (mean ± SD 26.3 ± 1.9 weeks) underwent transcatheter PDA closure. Their mean age and weight at the time of the procedure were 52 days (range 22-146 days) and 1,620 g (range 890-3,700 g), respectively. Successful closure was achieved in all but one patient. Procedure related complications were reported in 10 infants (40%), including 6 left pulmonary artery stenosis one of which required a balloon dilatation, two cardiac tamponades and two inferior vena cava thrombosis. Only two post-ligature syndromes occurred after the procedure. Two infants died one of which was related to the procedure.

Conclusion

Transcatheter closure of a PDA is a valid alternative to surgical ligation due to its high success rate and low incidence of post-ligature syndrome. Nevertheless, we also report rare, although serious complications.

Transcatheter closure of tubular PDA with amplatzer plug 4 in preterm infants weighing between 900 and 3,400 g: the pros and cons

Objective

To our knowledge, no prior study has focused on the outcome of PDA occlusion using an Amplatzer™ Vascular Plug 4 (AP4) in ill preterm infants. This study aims to highlight the pros and cons of AP4 in this cohort.

Methods

Between 2020 and 2022, 26 ill preterm infants underwent PDA closure in our centre. The median age, weight, and gestational age were 60 days (11-180 days), 1,900g (900-3,400 g), and 25 weeks (22-33 weeks), respectively. The indication of the intervention was hemodynamically significant PDA. A medical trial with non-steroid medication failed to close the ducts in all patients. Follow-up using echocardiography was done 24, 48, and 72 h after the intervention.

Results

Of 26 ducts, 21 were successfully closed with AP4. Five ducts shorter than 7 mm were unsuitable for AP4 and were closed with the Amplatzer Piccolo device. The median radiation time was 4 min (3-9 min). No early plug-related complications or deaths were documented. Plug-related jailing of the left pulmonary artery as a late complication was 9.5%, and LPA reintervention was required. All ducts were closed after 48 h.

Conclusion

Implantation of the AP4 using a 4 F 0.38 guide wire-compatible catheter without inserting a long sheath makes the closure of tubular ducts with this device feasible and uncomplicated with a short intervention time. However, the limited sizes with fixed lengths of the AP4 make it unsuitable for ducts wider than 4.5 mm and shorter than the chosen device length, which can increase the risk of significant left pulmonary stenosis. A wide range of plug diameters and lengths is required to accommodate the large and short ducts.

Percutaneous Closure of the Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Infants ≤2 kg: IMPACT Registry Insights

OBJECTIVES

Percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure is becoming the standard of care for definitive closure in progressively smaller and younger neonates. The objective of this study was to assess safety and feasibility of percutaneous PDA closure in patients ≤2 kg.

METHODS

This was a cohort study using the IMPACT Registry (Improving Pediatric and Adult Congenital Treatments) from the American College of Cardiology Foundation's National Cardiovascular Data Registry. Patients who were ≤2 kg at the time of percutaneous PDA closure were included. The primary outcome was the composite of technical failure and/or major adverse event.

RESULTS

A total of 1587 attempted PDA closures were included, with a 3% incidence of technical failure and 5.5% incidence of the composite outcome. Major adverse events were observed in 3.8% of the patients; the most common events were device embolization requiring retrieval and unplanned cardiac or vascular surgery in 1.3% and 1.3% of cases, respectively. The incidence of the composite outcome was associated with the need for arterial access (P < .001) as well as annual hospital volume of percutaneous PDA closures in infants ≤2 kg (P = .001). The incidence of the composite outcome has decreased overtime, whereas median weight at the time of procedure has also diminished.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous PDA closure appears to be safe and feasible procedures in infants ≤2 kg. The incidence of major adverse events has continued to decline over the years and seems to have a strong correlation with individual center case volumes and expertise.

Closing the Gap: Investigation of Various Approaches in the Management of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

In preterm newborns with extremely low birth weights, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), which is defined as a remnant connection between the aorta and pulmonary artery after 72 hours of birth, is frequently linked to substantial morbidity and mortality. If left untreated, a hemodynamically significant PDA (hsPDA) increases the risk for bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, and intraventricular hemorrhage among other morbidities, and can even lead to death. While instances of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) resolving on their own are frequent, the primary approach for managing PDA closure in premature infants involves pharmacological interventions, commonly utilizing indomethacin, ibuprofen, or paracetamol. However, with these pharmacological treatment options, there is an increased risk of renal toxicity, gastrointestinal bleeding, and reopening of PDA among other complications. If pharmacological interventions are not successful or contraindicated, PDA can be closed via transcatheter closure or surgical ligation. As with any medically invasive procedure, it is not without risks and can lead to long-term complications. This review explores the different management options and the benefits and outcomes of conservative management vs. active management in order to get one step closer to standardizing the treatment for PDA. With so much controversy surrounding the best management option, there is a lack of evidence to support one treatment method superior to the other in reducing overall mortality, and this needs to be explored further.

Perioperative anesthetic management of premature neonates weighing less than 1500 grams undergoing transcatheter PDA (TC-PDA) closure: An institutional anesthetic experience

Objectives

The aim of our study is to describe the various anesthetic techniques and intraoperative management used during transcatheter closure of hemodynamically significant PDAs in VLBW premature infants weighing less than 1.5 kg and their potential impact on postoperative outcomes using a retrospective chart review.

Design

A retrospective electronic medical chart review was performed in infants who underwent Transcatheter Patent Ductus Arteriosus (TC-PDA) closure at an academic institution between January 1, 2008 and October 4th 2019. Only premature patients with isolated PDA weighing less than 1500 g at the time of the procedure were included in the study.

Setting

Single Institutional Hospital.

Participants

Premature patients with isolated PDA weighing less than 1500 g at the time of the procedure.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and main results

Interprocedurally, there was no evidence of device embolization or clinically significant vascular obstruction on follow-up echocardiography, and inotropic or vasoactive infusions were not required. All patients survived and were discharged from the hospital after a mean of 86.4 ± 48.49 days (median 74, range 40-180) following initial admission to the NICU. At 7 post-operative days, freedom from ventilatory support reached 70% in all patients. Incidences of device embolization or clinically significant vascular obstruction were not noted on follow-up echocardiography.

Conclusions

Though our preliminary findings show promising outcomes following TC-PDA closure relative to traditional surgical approaches, further investigations with higher patient volume are needed to validate these promising observations.

Frequency and Predictors of Acute and Persistent Femoral Artery Occlusion in Infants with Congenital Heart Disease: A Study Using Ultrasonography for Arterial Access and the Diagnosis of Arterial Occlusion

Femoral arterial access is challenging in infants. Furthermore, after cardiac catheterization, femoral arterial occlusion (FAO) can be underestimated and easily missed on physical examination. Ultrasound is recommended for femoral arterial access and the correct diagnosis of FAO; however, few studies have reported its effectiveness.To investigate the frequency and risk factors of acute loss of the arterial pulse (ALAP) and persistent femoral arterial occlusion (PFAO) in infants with congenital heart disease who underwent ultrasound-guided femoral arterial access (US-GFAA) and were diagnosed with FAO by ultrasound.We obtained data related to patient characteristics, access variables of US-GFAA, and ultrasonography findings of the femoral artery from our pediatric cardiac catheterization database between August 2017 and August 2022. We divided the patients into groups based on the presence of ALAP and PFAO. We identified ALAP in 99 (19%) patients and PFAO in 21(4%) of 522 patients in the study. The median patient age was 132 days (interquartile range: 75-202 days). The logistic regression analysis identified younger age, aortic coarctation, previous catheterization of the same femoral artery, larger sheath size (5F), and longer duration of cannulation as independent risk factors for ALAP and younger age as an independent risk factor for PFAO (all p < 0.05). This study showed that younger age at procedure was a risk factor for both ALAP and PFAO, while aortic coarctation, previous arterial catheterization, use of a larger sheath and longer duration of cannulation were risk factors for ALAP in infants. The majority of FAO is reversible and secondary to arterial spasm, and the of FAO increases inversely with patient age.

Safety and Short-Term Outcomes for Infants < 2.5 kg Undergoing PDA Device Closure: A C3PO Registry Study

To evaluate short-term procedural outcomes and safety for infants < 2.5 kg who underwent catheterization with intended patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) device closure in a multi-center registry, as performance of this procedure becomes widespread. A multi-center retrospective review was performed using data from the Congenital Cardiac Catheterization Project on Outcomes (C3PO) registry. Data were collected for all intended cases of PDA closure in infants < 2.5 kg from April 2019 to December 2020 at 13 participating sites. Successful device closure was defined as device placement at the conclusion of the catheterization. Procedural outcomes and adverse events (AE) were described, and associations between patient characteristics, procedural outcomes and AEs were analyzed. During the study period, 300 cases were performed with a median weight of 1.0 kg (range 0.7-2.4). Successful device closure was achieved in 98.7% of cases with a 1.7% incidence of level 4/5 AEs, including one periprocedural mortality. Neither failed device placement nor adverse events were significantly associated with patient age, weight or institutional volume. Higher incidence of adverse events associated with patients who had non-cardiac problems (p = 0.017) and cases with multiple devices attempted (p = 0.064). Transcatheter PDA closure in small infants can be performed with excellent short-term outcomes and safety across institutions with variable case volume.

Institutional Trend in Device Selection for Transcatheter PDA Closure in Premature Infants

We report our experience with transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure in premature infants and compare patients grouped by the device used for closure: the Microvascular Plug, "MVP" (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN); Micro Plug Set, "Micro Plug" (KA Medical, Minneapolis, MN); and Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder, "Piccolo" (Abbot, Santa Clara, CA). We also report trends in device selection over time. Studies examining outcomes according to device selection for PDA closure in premature infants are lacking. We performed a retrospective review of all percutaneous PDA closures in premature infants at a single center (June 2018-May 2021). Patients were grouped by initial device selected for PDA closure (intention to treat). Institutional Review Board approval was obtained. 58 premature infants [MVP (n = 25), Micro Plug (n = 25), and Piccolo (n = 8)] underwent successful transcatheter PDA closure (mean gestational age 27 weeks 2 days; mean weight at procedure 1.4 kg; mean age at procedure 28 days). Pre-procedural demographics, procedural data, and follow-up data were similar between groups. There were no significant procedural adverse events. Three devices (2 MVP, 0 Micro Plug, 1 Piccolo p = 0.27) embolized after the procedure. One other device was removed for concern for aortic obstruction. Device selection evolved with a clear trend toward the Micro Plug device over time. Demographic, procedural, and follow-up data were similar between the MVP, Micro Plug, and Piccolo groups. The Micro Plug did not require exchange for suboptimal fitting or embolize and became our preferred device in most cases.

Complications of Peripheral Arterial Access in Preterm and Term Neonates: A Systematic Review

The aim of the study is to provide a comprehensive review of vascular complications secondary to peripheral arterial catheterization in preterm and term neonates. The systematic review consisted of searching PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and references of journals using pre-trialed MeSH terms and articles. Eight studies were included for full text analysis from 2,369 initial articles: six retrospective reviews and two prospective studies. Rate of complication was 8.6% and all complications were ischemic in nature. Complications most often occurred in neonates with pulmonary/cardiac comorbidities and lower gestational ages. No association was found for weight and sex of neonates. The radial artery site presented with lower rates of complication of 6% and the femoral presented with the highest (16%). Complications predominately occurred in catheter sizes larger than 22 gauge and most often within 1 day of insertion. A low rate of complications (7.4%) was observed in studies that used heparinized saline at the time of catheterization. This study demonstrates an increasing overall rate of complications with ischemia presenting as the most common complication. There seems to be an association between gestational age, comorbidities, site of catheter, size of catheter, and duration of catheter with such complications. This study also demonstrates the association between the use of heparinized saline and a reduction in rate of complications. The authors advocate for a national data collection tool of all pediatric arterial catheters and its complications to be able to analyze and work on best practice to minimize life changing iatrogenic complications.

Feasibility, Safety, and Short‐Term Outcomes of Transcatheter Patent Ductus Arteriosus Closure in Premature Infants on High‐Frequency Jet Ventilation

Background

Prolonged exposure to a hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is associated with major morbidity, particularly in infants born at <27 weeks’ gestation. High‐frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) is a standard of care at our center. There are no data about transcatheter PDA closure while on HFJV. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of HFJV during transcatheter PDA closure.

Methods and Results

This is a retrospective cohort study of premature infants undergoing transcatheter device closure on HFJV. The primary outcome was successful device placement. Secondary outcomes included procedure time, fluoroscopy time and dose, time off unit, device complications, need for escalation in respiratory support, and 7‐day survival. Subgroup comparative evaluation of patients managed with HFJV versus a small cohort of patients managed with conventional mechanical ventilation was performed. Thirty‐eight patients were included in the study. Median age and median weight at PDA device closure for the HFJV cohort were 32 days (interquartile range, 25.25–42.0 days) and 1115 g (interquartile range, 885–1310 g), respectively. There was successful device placement in 100% of patients. There were no device complications noted. The time off unit and the procedure time were not significantly different between the HFJV group and the conventional ventilation group. Infants managed by HFJV had shorter median fluoroscopy times (4.5 versus 6.1 minutes; P<0.05) and no increased risk of adverse respiratory outcomes.

Conclusions

Transcatheter PDA closure in premature infants on HFJV is a safe and effective approach that does not compromise device placement success rate and does not lead to secondary complications.

An Up-to-Date Narrative Review on Congenital Heart Disease Percutaneous Treatment in Children Using Contemporary Devices

Background: Congenital heart pathology has a significant burden regarding morbidity and mortality in the pediatric population. Several transcatheter interventions and devices have been designed as an alternative to surgical repair. Percutaneous interventions have been proven to yield good results in most cases but with less stress and trauma than that attributed to surgical treatment, especially in frail pediatric patients. We aimed to review the literature and to investigate the feasibility and efficacy of transcatheter interventions and implantable devices for congenital heart disease management in children. Methods: We performed a search in Scopus and MEDLINE databases using prespecified keywords to retrieve clinical studies published between 2000 and 2021. Results: This article provides an up-to-date review regarding the applicability of interventional techniques in simple inter-atrial or inter-ventricular defects, and in challenging congenital defects, such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome, tetralogy of Fallot, or coronary artery fistula. Furthermore, we reviewed recent indications for defibrillator and cardiac resynchronization therapy, and new and promising devices currently being tested. Conclusion: Transcatheter treatment represents a feasible and efficient alternative to surgical repair of congenital heart defects. Novel devices could extend the indications and possibilities of percutaneous interventions in pediatric patients with congenital heart diseases.

Noninvasive Respiratory Severity Indices Predict Adverse Outcomes in Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that elevated respiratory severity indices will identify patients with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) at the greatest risk for adverse in-hospital outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study. A modified respiratory severity score (mean airway pressure × fraction of inspired oxygen) and a modified pulmonary score (respiratory support score × fraction of inspired oxygen + sum of medication scores) were calculated in a consecutive cohort of patients ≥36 weeks of postmenstrual age with severe BPD admitted to a referral center between 2010 and 2018. The association between each score and the primary composite outcome of death/prolonged length of stay (>75th percentile for cohort) was assessed using area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) analysis and logistic regression. Death and the composite outcome death/tracheostomy were analyzed as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

In 303 patients, elevated scores were significantly associated with increased adjusted odds of death/prolonged length of stay: aOR 1.5 (95% CI 1.3-1.7) for the modified respiratory severity score and aOR 11.5 (95% CI 5.5-24.1) for the modified pulmonary score. The modified pulmonary score had slightly better discrimination of death/prolonged length of stay when compared with the modified respiratory severity score, AUROC 0.90 (95% CI 0.85-0.94) vs 0.88 (95% CI 0.84-0.93), P = .03. AUROCs for death and death/tracheostomy did not differ significantly when comparing the modified respiratory severity score with the modified pulmonary score.

CONCLUSIONS

In our referral center, the modified respiratory severity score or the modified pulmonary score identified patients with established severe BPD at the greatest risk for death/prolonged length of stay, death, and death/tracheostomy.

Use of the Medtronic Microvascular Plug 7Q for transcatheter closure of large patent ductus arteriosus in infants weighing less than 2.5 kg

Background

The sole Food and Drug Administration‐approved device for transcatheter closure of the patent arterial duct in premature infants is indicated for patent ductus arteriosus (PDAs) ≤ 4 mm in diameter. We report a two‐center experience with transcatheter closure of large PDAs (>4 mm) in infants weighing <2.5 kg using the Microvascular Plug 7Q (MVP‐7Q) device.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of departmental databases and medical charts to define patient cohort and report demographic, procedural, and follow‐up data.

Results

Twenty‐two patients (12 male) with a median gestational age and birthweight of 25.5 weeks (interquartile range [IQR] = 24–28) and 800 g (572–1075), respectively, underwent attempted PDA occlusion with the MVP‐7Q using a transvenous approach. The median age and weight at the time of PDA occlusion was 32 days (IQR = 24–28) and 1100 g (IQR = 960–1700), respectively. The median PDA length was 12 mm (IQR = 11–12.65). The median PDA diameters at the aortic and pulmonary ends were 5.1 (IQR = 4.9–5.5) and 4.8 mm (IQR = 4.6–5.3), respectively. Successful device occlusion was achieved in 20 patients (91%). There were two failed attempts: One due to inappropriate sizing, and the other secondary to left pulmonary artery stenosis. There were no procedural complications and no residual shunting on follow‐up.

Conclusions

The MVP‐7Q is safe and effective for transcatheter closure of large (>4 mm) PDAs in infants <2.5 kg. The lack of retention disks may help with avoiding impingement on surrounding vessels.

Respiratory support strategies in the management of severe, longstanding bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Despite efforts to minimize ventilator-induced lung injury, some preterm infants require positive pressure support after 36 weeks' post-menstrual age. Infants with severe BPD typically experience progressive mismatch of ventilation and perfusion, which manifests as respiratory distress, hypoxemia in room air, hypercarbia, and growth failure. Lung compliance varies, but lung resistance generally increases with prolonged exposure to positive pressure ventilation and other sources of inflammation. Serial lung radiographs reveal a heterogeneous pattern, with areas of both hyperinflation and atelectasis; in extreme cases, macrocystic changes may be noted. Efforts to wean the respiratory support are often unsuccessful, and trials of high frequency ventilation, exogenous corticosteroids, and diuretics are common. The incidence of pulmonary hypertension increases with the severity of BPD, as does the mortality rate. Therefore, periodic screening and efforts to mitigate the risk of PH is fundamental to the management of longstanding BPD. Failure of conventional, lung-protective strategies (e.g., high rate/low tidal-volume and/or high frequency ventilation) warrants consideration of ventilatory strategies individualized to the disease physiology. Non-invasive modes of respiratory support may be successful in infants with mild to moderate BPD phenotypes. However, infants with moderate to severe BPD phenotypes often require invasive respiratory support, and pressure-limited or volume-targeted conventional ventilation may be better suited to the physiology than high-frequency ventilation. The consistent provision of adequate support is fundamental to the management of longstanding BPD and is best achieved with a stepwise increase in ventilator support until comfortable spontaneous respirations are achieved. Adequately supported infants typically experience improvements in both oxygenation and ventilation, which, if sustained, may arrest and generally reverses the course of a potentially lethal lung disease. Care should be individualized to address the most likely pulmonary mechanics, including variable lung compliance, elevated airway resistance, and variable airway obstruction.

Bedside Transcatheter Patent Ductus Arteriosus Device Occlusion in an Extremely Low Birth Weight Neonate: A Novel Approach in a High-Risk Population

Extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants weighing less than 1 kilogram are at a high-risk for delayed patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure. Percutaneous PDA closure offers a less invasive approach when compared with surgical PDA closure, which may provide faster recovery times and less transfusion requirements. However, this procedure involves transporting tenuous, unstable patients from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to the catheterization laboratory which introduces many potential risks for the neonate. Performing percutaneous PDA closure at the bedside offers a successful alternative to performing the procedure in the catheterization laboratory and avoiding risk associated with transporting ELBW neonates.

Pulmonary hypertension in the child with bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common chronic lung disease of prematurity resulting from complex interactions of perinatal factors that often lead to prolonged respiratory support and increased pulmonary morbidity. There is also growing appreciation for the dysmorphic pulmonary bed characterized by vascular growth arrest and remodeling, resulting in pulmonary vascular disease and its most severe form, pulmonary hypertension (PH) in children with BPD. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the pathophysiology of PH in children with BPD, evaluate the current recommendations for screening and diagnosis of PH, discern associated comorbid conditions, and outline the current treatment options.

Ultrasonographic measurements of femoral vessel diameter in neonates weighing less than 2.5 kg

BACKGROUND

Cannulation in low birth weight (LBW) neonates using larger sheaths could increase the risk of vascular injury. This study investigated the relationship between body weight (BW) and diameter of femoral vessels in LBW neonates and whether BW can be used to predict femoral vessel diameter.

METHODS

The cohort included 100 neonates weighing < 2.5 kg (.57-2.42 kg) with a gestational age of 24-39 weeks. Vascular ultrasonography was used to measure diameters of the bilateral femoral arteries (FA) and veins (FV). The cohort was divided into four groups according to weight: group-A, 2-2.49 kg (n = 28); group-B, 1.5-1.99 kg (n = 38); group-C, 1-1.49 kg (n = 21); and group-D, < 1 kg (n = 13); or according to BSA: group-A, BSA > .16 m² (n = 25); group-B, .13-.16 m² (n = 40); group-C, .1-.13 m² (n = 22); and group-D, < .1 m² (n = 13).

RESULTS

The median vessel diameters (mm) in groups A-D according to weight were FA, 1.96, 1.86, 1.78, and 1.53, and FV, 2.30, 2.28, 2.13, and 1.87, respectively. The median vessel diameters (mm) in groups A-D according to BSA were FA, 1.96, 1.86, 1.76, and 1.53, and FV, 2.30, 2.28, 2.05, and 1.87, respectively. There were positive correlations between BW and femoral vessel diameter (correlation coefficient: .56 and .55 between BW and FA and FV, respectively) (p < 0.001), and between BSA and femoral vessel diameter (correlation coefficient: .56 and .55 between BSA and FA and FV, respectively) (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

BW is a predictor of femoral vessel diameter in LBW newborns. This finding may help to avoid using larger sheath in smaller vessels.

Cardiopulmonary function findings of pediatric patients with patent ductus arteriosus

Transcatheter occlusion and surgical ligation are the treatments of choice for most patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in children. Fifty-five children who had PDA completed a pulmonary function test and a symptom-limited treadmill exercise test from 2016 to 2018 at 1 medical center in southern Taiwan. The study group was divided into surgical ligation and catheterization groups, which were compared to a healthy control group matched for age, sex, and body mass index. Data about the performance on the exercise test, including metabolic equivalent at anaerobic threshold and peak, were analyzed. No differences in the pulmonary function and ventilatory parameters were observed between the surgery, catheterization, and control groups. Heart rate at peak and at anaerobic threshold significantly differed in the investigated groups. The post hoc analysis showed that the surgery group had a lower heart rate at peak and threshold compared to the catheterization and control groups (P = .02, P < .001, respectively). No significant difference was found between the catheterization group and the control group. A larger and younger group of patients were recruited, allowing for newer data about the cardiopulmonary function to be obtained. The findings suggest that patients with PDA could undergo physical training after intervention. The imposition of restrictions to limit sports activities should be avoided.

Percutaneous Closure of the Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Very-Low-Weight Infants

In view of the known complications of drug therapy and open surgical ligation, and the potential for prolonged patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) exposure to be harmful, health care practitioners have sought new approaches to achieve definitive ductal closure. Interest in percutaneous (catheter-based) PDA closure has emerged within the neonatal community as a viable treatment option, because it has been fueled by recent procedural and device modifications, as well as mounting feasibility and safety data. Herein, we provide a contemporary review of percutaneous PDA closure among infants at the crux of the medical debate-very-low-weight infants (≤1,500 g), including: 1) characterization of traditional PDA treatments (drug therapy, open surgical ligation) and conservative (nonintervention) management options; 2) a general overview of the major procedural steps of percutaneous ductal closure, including efforts to reduce thrombotic complications and the emergence of a novel US Food and Drug Administration-approved device; 3) a systematic review and meta-analysis to better understand risk profiles of percutaneous PDA closure in this population; and 4) discussion of current gaps in our understanding of optimal PDA care, including the critical need for well-designed, randomized, controlled clinical trials.

Percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure: Twelve years of experience

INTRODUCTION

Patent ductus arteriosus, a persistent communication between the descending thoracic aorta and the pulmonary artery, is one of the most common congenital heart defects. Transcatheter occlusion is an effective alternative to surgery and is currently standard of care for most patients. The authors present the results from a single center after twelve years of experience using this technique.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of medical records from all patients referred to a tertiary center for percutaneous ductus closure between January 2006 and September 2018.

RESULTS

A total of 221 patients were referred, with a mean age of 5.5 years-old (16 patients were infants, with the youngest aged four months). A Nit-Occlud® coil was used 139 times (62.9%), an Amplatzer™ duct occluder 79 times (35.7%), and vascular plugs were used three times. Percutaneous closure was achieved in every treated patient, with 1.4% maintaining residual shunting. Although higher overall coil device implantation was noted, duct occluder usage has been greater since 2011. Of all the coils, 55% were either 4x4 or 5x4 mm, and 73% of all Amplatzer duct occluders were either 6x4 or 8x6 mm, which correlates to the majority of patients having a small to moderately sized ductus. No complications were noted during the procedure, with a 1.8% post-procedure complication rate (one device embolization after 48 hours and three cases of loss of arterial pulse).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure was safe and effective in this setting, with a low global complication rate and similar outcomes to most equivalent centers.

Transcatheter patent arterial duct closure in premature infants: A new technique to ease access to the patent arterial duct, with particular benefit for the tricuspid valve

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter patent arterial duct (PAD) closure in premature infants has been shown to be feasible. Since our early transcatheter PAD closure procedures in premature infants at Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, we have changed our technique several times to advance the guidewire through the right heart to avoid tricuspid valve damage.

AIM

To describe the technique we have been using since May 2019, to report our results with a particular focus on tricuspid leaks and to analyse the potential mechanisms of tricuspid lesion development with previous methods.

METHODS

All premature infants weighing<2kg who underwent transcatheter PAD closure with this new technique were included. Demographic data, procedural data, outcome and procedural complications were reviewed, with particular attention to the occurrence of tricuspid regurgitation.

RESULTS

Between May 2019 and May 2020, 33 patients were included. Median gestational age was 25 weeks. Median birth weight and procedural weight were 690g (range 490-1065g; interquartile range [IQR] 620-785g) and 1160g (range 900-1900g; IQR 1030-1300g), respectively. Median age at procedure was 35 (IQR 30-46) days. PAD anatomy was evaluated on transthoracic echocardiography only. The median duct diameter was 3 (IQR 2.5-3.2) mm at the pulmonary end. Success rate was 100% (defined as successful closure without residual shunt). One patient had a renal vein thrombosis, which fully resolved with low-molecular-weight heparin anticoagulation. No tricuspid regurgitation or stenosis of the left pulmonary artery or the aorta was seen. One patient died of a superior caval vein obstruction with bilateral chylothorax related to a central catheter thrombosis 56 days after the procedure, unrelated to the catheter procedure.

CONCLUSION

In this prospective study, we describe a new technique to avoid tricuspid valve damage and facilitate delivery of the PAD device.

Echocardiographic versus Angiographic Measurement of the Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants and the Utility of Echo Guidance for Transcatheter Closure

BACKGROUND

Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is increasingly utilized for guiding transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants. The objectives of this study were to compare PDA size measurements by TTE with angiographic measurements and to describe TTE techniques used in guiding transcatheter PDA closure (TCPC) in ELBW infants.

METHODS

One hundred twenty-five consecutive ELBW infants (gestational age < 27 weeks, birth weight < 1 kg) who underwent TCPC before 8 weeks of age under TTE guidance were included. Patent ductus arteriosus sizes were measured from the procedural TTE and angiograms retrospectively by blinded observers. The TTE PDA diameters at the aortic (ED1) and pulmonary end (ED2) were compared with the corresponding angiographic diameters (CD1 and CD2). The TTE PDA lengths, obtained by two techniques (EL1, a straight line between ED1 and ED2; and EL2, a curvilinear line along the PDA), were compared with the PDA length by angiography (CL). Transthoracic echocardiography was used to guide accurate device positioning within the PDA.

RESULTS

The procedure weight was 600-1,460 g. The TTE and angiographic PDA diameters were comparable (mean ED1 vs CD1 = 4.5 ± 0.68 vs 4.4 ± 0.85 mm, P = .26; and mean ED2 vs CD2 = 3.1 ± 0.72 vs 3.2 ± 0.94 mm, P = .14). The angiographic length was underestimated by EL1 by 2.6 ± 1.6 mm (P < .0001), while EL2 estimated it better (mean EL2 vs CL = 11.0 ± 1.83 vs 10.8 ± 2.15 mm; P = .40). Transcatheter PDA closure was successful in 100% of the cases using TTE guidance. There were no intraprocedural complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Transthoracic echocardiography guidance during TCPC in ELBW infants eliminates the need for aortograms via femoral arterial access, preventing the complications associated with it. Transthoracic echocardiography PDA measurements are comparable to angiographic measurements, thereby assisting in appropriate device size selection.

Respiratory Trajectory after Invasive Interventions for Patent Ductus Arteriosus of Preterm Infants

Invasive interventions have been conducted in preterm infants with significant patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) when medical treatment has failed, and methods of invasive intervention have been reported. Surgical ligation via lateral thoracotomy has been a well-established procedure for decades. Recently, transcatheter occlusion has been safely and feasibly applied to the premature population. However, little research has been conducted on the benefits of transcatheter occlusion in very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants compared to surgical ligation. This study compared transcatheter and surgical techniques in VLBW infants in terms of short-term respiratory outcomes. The medical records of 401 VLBW infants admitted to a tertiary hospital between September 2014 and January 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who were diagnosed with a congenital anomaly, a chromosomal anomaly, or congenital heart disease, except for an inter-atrial shunt, were excluded. The perinatal conditions, neonatal morbidities, periprocedural vital signs, and respiratory support trajectories were compared between the transcatheter-treated and surgically ligated group. A total of 31 eligible VLBW infants received invasive intervention: 14 were treated with transcatheter occlusion (Group A), and 17 infants were treated with surgical ligation (Group B). Respiratory outcomes were not statistically significant between the two groups, despite Group A showing a trend toward early improvement in post-intervention respiratory trajectory. In this small case study, a different trend in post-intervention respiratory trajectories was observed. Future research with larger case numbers should be conducted to address our preliminary observations in more detail.

Percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure: Twelve years of experience

INTRODUCTION

Patent ductus arteriosus, a persistent communication between the descending thoracic aorta and the pulmonary artery, is one of the most common congenital heart defects. Transcatheter occlusion is an effective alternative to surgery and is currently standard of care for most patients. The authors present the results from a single center after twelve years of experience using this technique.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of medical records from all patients referred to a tertiary center for percutaneous ductus closure between January 2006 and September 2018.

RESULTS

A total of 221 patients were referred, with a mean age of 5.5 years-old (16 patients were infants, with the youngest aged four months). A Nit-Occlud® coil was used 139 times (62.9%), an Amplatzer™ duct occluder 79 times (35.7%), and vascular plugs were used three times. Percutaneous closure was achieved in every treated patient, with 1.4% maintaining residual shunting. Although higher overall coil device implantation was noted, duct occluder usage has been greater since 2011. Of all the coils, 55% were either 4x4 or 5x4 mm, and 73% of all Amplatzer duct occluders were either 6x4 or 8x6 mm, which correlates to the majority of patients having a small to moderately sized ductus. No complications were noted during the procedure, with a 1.8% post-procedure complication rate (one device embolization after 48 hours and three cases of loss of arterial pulse).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure was safe and effective in this setting, with a low global complication rate and similar outcomes to most equivalent centers.

Percutaneous Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Infants 1.5 kg or Less: A Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate technical success and safety of percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure in infants ≤1.5 kg.

STUDY DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. Data sources included Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane, and PubMed from inception to April 2020. Publications were included if they had a clear definition of the intervention as percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure in infants ≤1.5 kg. Data extraction was independently performed by multiple observers. Primary outcome was technical success and secondary outcomes were adverse events (AEs). Subgroup analysis was performed in infants ≤6.0 kg. Data were pooled by using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

We included 28 studies, including 373 infants ≤1.5 kg and 69 studies enrolling 1794 infants ≤6.0 kg. In patients ≤1.5 kg, technical success was 96% (95% CI, 93%-98%; P = .16; I² = 23%). The overall incidence of AE was 27% (95% CI, 17%-38%; P < .001; I² = 70%) and major AEs was 8% (95% CI, 5%-10%; P = .63; I² = 0%). There were 5 deaths related to the procedure (2%; 95% CI, 1%-4%; P = .99; I² = 0%); 4 of these deaths occurred in infants <0.8 kg. The probability of technical failure was inversely related to age at the time of the procedure (OR, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.830-0.974; P = .009). Weight at intervention has decreased over time and procedural success has increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure is feasible in infants ≤1.5 kg with few major AEs. The procedural success rate is high, despite performing the intervention in smaller patients.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION

CRD42020145230.

Fate of the Left Pulmonary Artery and Thoracic Aorta After Transcatheter Patent Ductus Arteriosus Closure in Low Birth Weight Premature Infants

Transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus closure (TCPC) is an emerging treatment for low birth weight extremely premature neonates (EPNs). Left pulmonary artery (LPA) and descending aorta (DAO) obstruction are described device-related complications, however, data on mid- and long-term vascular outcomes are lacking. A retrospective analysis of EPNs who underwent successful TCPC at our institution from 03/2013 to 12/2018 was performed. Two-dimensional echocardiography and spectral Doppler velocities from various time points before and after TCPC were used to identify LPA and DAO flow disturbances. A total of 44 EPNs underwent successful TCPC at a median (range) procedural weight of 1150 g (755-2500 g). Thirty-two (73%) patients were closed with the AVP II and 12 (27%) with the Amplatzer Piccolo device. LPA and DAO velocities on average remained within normal limits and improved spontaneously in long-term follow up (26.1 months, range 1-75 months). One patient, who had concerning LPA flow characteristics immediately after device implant (peak velocity 2.6 m/s) developed progressive LPA stenosis requiring stent placement 3 months post-procedure. In the remaining infants, including 7 (16%) who developed LPA and 3 (7%) who developed DAO flow disturbances (range 2-2.4 m/s), all had progressive normalization of flow velocities over time. TCPC can be performed safely in EPNs with a low incidence of LPA and DAO obstruction. In the absence of significant progressive vascular obstruction in the early post-procedure period, mild increases in LPA and DAO flow velocities tend to improve spontaneously and normalize in long-term follow-up.

A randomized trial of intravenous acetaminophen versus indomethacin for treatment of hemodynamically significant PDAs in VLBW infants

Objective was to compare the rate of successful treatment of hsPDA based on echocardiogram criteria after use of IV acetaminophen or IV indomethacin in very low-birthweight infants. The study was a multi-center, randomized controlled trial. Infants born prior to 32 weeks with birthweight ≤ 1500 g were included if PDA treatment was indicated within the 21 days after birth. hsPDA was defined by strict echocardiogram criteria. Eligible infants were randomized to treatment with either IV acetaminophen or IV indomethacin. Of 86 eligible infants, 17 infants were randomized to acetaminophen and 20 to indomethacin. One (5.9%) hsPDA in the acetaminophen group had successful treatment compared to 11 (55%) in the indomethacin group (p = 0.002). Eight (47%) in the acetaminophen group and 3 (15%) in the indomethacin group received transcatheter PDA closure (p = 0.07). IV indomethacin was more effective than IV acetaminophen for treatment of hsPDAs. More infants in the acetaminophen group received transcatheter closure.

Comparison of isolated venous approach with the standard approach in children undergoing patent ductus arteriosus device closure

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter device closure is a safe procedure recommended in children with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). While the standard procedure uses arterial and venous femoral access, it poses risk of vascular complications especially in young infants. Isolated venous approach has been tried in a few studies and was found to be non-inferior to the standard technique. In this prospective observational study, we have compared the two vascular approaches of PDA device closure in pediatric patients and have also studied the feasibility of this approach in young children with weight < 6 kg.

RESULTS

PDA device occlusion was performed with either one of the approaches-venous alone (group I) or standard approach (group II) in a total of 135 children enrolled prospectively. The baseline data, procedural outcomes, vascular complications, and radiation dose were compared between the two groups. Fifty-two and 83 children were included in group I and group II, respectively. A total of 22 children (16%) (13 in group I; 9 in group II) had weight < 6 kg. In group II, 6 children (7.2%) had vascular site complications treated with heparin infusion with two children requiring thrombolysis. Another child in group II developed intravascular hemolysis following residual shunt, requiring surgical device retrieval and closure. No significant differences were observed in mean fluoroscopic time (p = 0.472) and air kerma between the two groups (p = 0.989).

CONCLUSION

Transcatheter PDA device closure without arterial access is a feasible and safe option in children including young infants. This technique avoids the risk of vascular complications although requires careful case selection.

Early experience with the Micro Plug Set for preterm patent ductus arteriosus closure

OBJECTIVES

We intend to describe early experience using a new, commercially available Micro Plug Set for preterm neonate and infant transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) occlusion.

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter PDA occlusion in premature neonates and small infants is safe and effective. The procedure is early in its evolution.

METHODS

Procedural and short-term outcomes of preterm neonates and infants undergoing transcatheter PDA occlusion with a new, commercially available device were reviewed.

RESULTS

Eight preterm neonates and infants born at median 27 weeks gestation (23-36 weeks) underwent transcatheter PDA device closure with the Micro Plug Set. The device is short (2.5 mm) with a range of diameters (3, 4, 5, 6 mm) and delivered through a microcatheter. Procedures were performed at median 41 days of age (12-88 days) and at 1690 g (760-3,310 g). Transvenous PDA device occlusion was performed with fluoroscopic and echocardiography guidance. All procedures were successful with complete PDA occlusion. There were no procedural or short-term adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Preterm neonate and infant transcatheter PDA device closure with a new, commercially available short and microcatheter delivered device (Micro Plug Set) was safe and effective in a small, early series of patients.

Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder clinical trial for percutaneous closure of the patent ductus arteriosus in patients ≥700 grams

Objectives

Characterize the safety and effectiveness of the Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure.

Background

The presence of a hemodynamically significant PDA has been associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality in children born premature.

Methods

This was a single arm, prospective, multicenter, non‐randomized study to evaluate the Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder to treat PDA in patients ≥700 g. From June 2017 to February 2019, 200 patients were enrolled at nine centers, with 100 patients weighing ≤2 kg. Primary effectiveness endpoint was the rate of PDA closure at 6‐month follow‐up. Primary safety endpoint was the rate of major complications through 6 months. Secondary endpoint was rate of significant pulmonary or aortic obstruction through 6 months' follow‐up.

Results

The implant success rate was 95.5% (191/200) overall and 99% in patients ≤2 kg (99/100). The primary effectiveness endpoint was achieved in 99.4% of implanted patients. Four patients experienced a primary safety endpoint event (2 transfusions, 1 hemolysis, and 1 aortic obstruction). There were no branch pulmonary artery obstructions. Five patients, all ≤2 kg, were noted to have worsening of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) after the procedure. None of the TR incidences manifested clinically. The Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder received FDA approval in January 2019 and became the first device approved for PDA closure in patients ≥700 g.

Conclusions

This study supports the safety and effectiveness of the Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder, particularly in patients between 700 g and 2 kg where there is currently a significant unmet need in the United States. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03055858.

Incidence and fate of device-related left pulmonary artery stenosis and aortic coarctation in small infants undergoing transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus closure

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate short- and middle-term outcomes after transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus (TC-PDA) closure in small infants, specifically device-related left pulmonary artery (LPA) stenosis and aortic coarctation, risk factors, and changes over time.

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have demonstrated successful transcatheter PDA (TC-PDA) closure in small infants. LPA stenosis and aortic coarctation have been seen after TC-PDA, but it is not clear whether device-related LPA/aortic obstruction persists.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective study of infants ≤4 kg who underwent TC-PDA closure from February 1, 2007 to September 1, 2018 was performed, evaluating the incidence and risk factors for LPA stenosis and coarctation.

RESULTS

Forty-four patients underwent successful TC-PDA with Amplatzer Vascular Plug II (AVPII; n = 30), Amplatzer Duct Occluder II-Additional Sizes (n = 10), Amplatzer Duct Occluder I (n = 3), and coil-filled AVPI (n = 1) devices, all via an antegrade approach. Median birthweight and procedural weight were 890 g (range: 490-3,250) and 2.8 kg (range: 1.2-4.0), respectively. Median follow-up was 0.7 years (range: 2 days-7 years). Thirty-eight patients had post-procedure echocardiograms assessing LPA/aortic obstruction. Of those, 17 had LPA flow acceleration/stenosis (≥1.5 m/s), which improved or resolved in all patients with available follow-up; 3 developed mild coarctation (>2 m/s), which improved in the two with more than short-term follow-up; 4 developed mild flow acceleration (1.5-2 m/s) in the descending aorta, which resolved in three and increased in one (2.4 m/s). Flow acceleration in the LPA was associated with younger procedural age, larger PDA minimal diameter, and placement of a device other than the AVPII. There was no device-related mortality or need for reintervention.

CONCLUSION

TC-PDA in small infants is effective, without significant complications. Device-related LPA/aortic obstruction can improve with time/growth.

Anesthetic management of catheter-based patent ductus arteriosus closure in neonates weighing <3 kg: A Retrospective Observational Study

BACKGROUND

The patent ductus arteriosus is a cardiac lesion commonly found in premature neonates. Though surgical closure via thoracotomy is the most definitive treatment option, it is associated with significant morbidity. New catheter-based closure options offer a potentially safer alternative treatment, even in premature neonates. However, no literature reports the anesthetic techniques, challenges, and risks associated with this procedure in this population.

AIM

This study documents the anesthetic challenges and potential complications associated with the management of catheter-based closure of the ductus arteriosus in neonates under 3 kg.

METHODS

This single-center, retrospective study examined patients who underwent catheter-based ductus arteriosus closure between August 2015 and February 2019. A clinical protocol for anesthetic management of these patients was utilized throughout the study period. Clinical outcomes considered were new hemodynamic instability or vasoactive medication requirements, hypothermia, prolonged intubation (>3 days postoperatively), postprocedure acute kidney injury, perioperative red blood cell transfusion, and accidental extubation.

RESULTS

Seventy-six neonates underwent 78 procedures. No patient developed perioperative hemodynamic instability, vasoactive medication requirements, or acute kidney injury. Four patients (5%) required red blood cell transfusion, two (3%) became hypothermic, and one (1%) was accidentally extubated. Closure was achieved in 73 patients (96%) on the first attempt. However, 17 patients (40%) required prolonged periods of mechanical ventilation following the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Despite multiple clinical and logistical challenges, anesthetic risk associated with catheter-based PDA closure in small neonates can be effectively managed through standardized and multidisciplinary care.

The optimal timing of surgical ligation of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm or very-low-birth-weight infants: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a particularly common problem in preterm infants. Although surgical ligation is rarely performed in many contemporary neonatal intensive care units, it remains a necessary treatment option for preterm infants with a large hemodynamically significant PDA under strict clinical criteria, and it can reduce mortality in preterm infants. However, the optimal timing of surgical ligation is still controversial. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the mortality and morbidity of early and late surgical ligation of PDA in preterm or very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants.

METHODS

This review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (CRD42019133686). We searched the databases of PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform up to May 2019.

RESULTS

This review included 6 retrospective studies involving 397 premature or VLBW infants with PDA. Pooled analysis showed that compared with the late ligation group, the early ligation group had a lower fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) at 24 hours postoperatively (mean difference [MD] -6.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] -9.45 to -3.22), fewer intubation days (MD -19.69, 95% CI -29.31 to -10.07), earlier date of full oral feeding (MD -22.98, 95% CI -28.63 to -17.34) and heavier body weight at 36 weeks of conceptional age (MD 232.08, 95% CI 57.28 to 406.88). No significant difference in mortality or other complications was found between the early and late groups.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis implies that compared with late surgical ligation, early ligation might have a better respiratory outcome and nutritional status for PDA in preterm or VLBW infants. There was no difference in mortality or postoperative complications between early and late ligation. A randomized prospective clinical trial with a possible large sample size is urgently needed to reinvestigate this conclusion.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42019133686.

Risk Factors for Red Blood Cell Transfusions in Children Undergoing Cardiac Catheterization

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors associated with risk of red blood cell transfusions (RBCTs) following pediatric cardiac catheterizations.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a review of all pediatric cardiac catheterizations from 2012 to 2017. The primary endpoint was RBCT within 72 hours of pediatric cardiac catheterization. Patient and procedural factors were reviewed. Generalized linear modelling was performed to describe interactions among relevant risk factors.

RESULTS

In total, 831 RBCTs occurred within 72 hours of 6028 pediatric cardiac catheterizations (13.8%). Univariate analysis revealed that the prevalence of RBCT was highest among infants (37.6% incidence of RBCT) and among those with higher estimated blood loss as a percent of blood volume (P = .03). Among infants, multivariate analysis revealed that weight (OR 0.72; 95% CI 0.63-0.81), complex 2-ventricle (OR 3.14, 95% CI 2.18-4.57), and single ventricle status (OR 5.21, 95% CI 3.42-8.01) were associated with risk of RBCT. Inpatient infants from intensive care (OR 4.74; 95% CI 3.49-6.49) or stepdown units (OR 2.33; 95% CI 1.58-3.46) were at higher risk. Length of procedure (OR 2.57; 95% CI 2.03-3.26) and oxygen saturation (OR 0.98; 95% CI 0.97-0.99; P < .01) were also associated with RBCTs.

CONCLUSIONS

Hospitalized infants with single ventricle or complex 2-ventricle anatomy are at highest risk of RBCT. Length of procedure, blood loss, and oxygen saturations are additional risk factors associated with RBCT. Operators should consider these factors when planning pediatric cardiac catheterizations, particularly when exposure to RBCT is undesirable.

Echocardiographic Diagnosis and Hemodynamic Evaluation of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Extremely Low Gestational Age Newborn (ELGAN) Infants

Persistent Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a common finding in extremely low gestational age newborn infants and its prevalence is inversely proportional to the gestational age. The presence of a persistent PDA is associated with increased mortality and several significant morbidities including intraventricular hemorrhage, pulmonary hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, and chronic lung disease or bronchopulmonary dysplasia. However, treating PDA has not been demonstrated to have beneficial impact on the long term outcomes. Currently there is no consensus on whether to treat the PDA or not, and if treat, when to treat and how to treat. The echocardiography is the investigation of choice to diagnose PDA, estimating the magnitude of shunt volume and assessing its hemodynamic significance, and to exclude/diagnose any associated congenital heart defect before any intervention. Various echocardiographic parameters and staging/scoring systems have been described to help the clincians making the clinical decisions and some of theses scoring systems are quite complex to apply in a busy day to day clinical practice. This concised review paper is focused to help the clinicians in making a clinical decision based upon clincial and echocardiography parameters. Hence, only the parameters which are commonly used and helpful in making the clinical decisions in day to day clincial practice have been described in this paper.

Transcatheter Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Infants With Weight Under 1,500 Grams

Persistent patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is very common in preterm infants, especially in extremely preterm infants. Despite significant advances in management of these vulnerable infants, there has been no consensus on management of PDA-when should we treat, who should we treat, how should we treat and in fact there is no agreement on how we should define a hemodynamically significant PDA. Medical management with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) remains the first line of therapy with moderate success rate in closing the PDA. Paracetamol has been reported to be a safe and equally effective medical therapy for closure of PDA. However, additional studies on its long-term safety and efficacy in extremely low birth weight infants are needed before paracetamol can be recommended as standard treatment for a PDA in preterm infants. Surgical ligation of PDA is not without an increased risk of mortality and co-morbidities. Recently, there has been a significant interest in percutaneous transcatheter closure of PDA in preterm infants, including extremely low birth weight infants. Transcatheter PDA closure in preterm ELBW infants is technically feasible with high PDA occlusion success rates and acceptable complication rates as compared to surgical ligation. Many centers have reported promising early- and mid-term follow-up results. However, they need to be further tested in the prospective well-designed studies and randomized controlled trials comparing the results and outcomes of this technique with current treatment strategies including medical treatment before they can be used as the new standard of care for PDA closure in extremely low birth weight infants.