Outcomes of transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus closure in infants weighing 2 to 6 kg

Abstract

Introduction and objectives: Transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure is safe in<2-kg infants and in≥6-kg patients, but major safety concerns remain when applied to the intermediate weight range. We aimed to assess outcomes of transcatheter PDA closure in 2- to 6-kg infants.

Methods: An international, multicenter, retrospective cohort study was conducted in 31 tertiary hospitals in 17 countries between 2000 and 2023, investigating all infants who underwent attempted transcatheter PDA closure with a procedural weight of 2-to-6kg.

Results: Attempted transcatheter PDA closure was performed in 1231 infants (median [Q1-Q3] weight, 4747 [3700-5300] g; median age, 132 [83-194] days; ex-preterm, n=581 [56.8%]) with a 95.0% success rate. A composite outcome of procedural failure or major adverse events was observed in 173 (14%) patients, including device embolization in 64 (3.7%), device-induced left pulmonary artery stenosis in 47 (2.7%), and procedural death in 2 (0.2%). Logistic regression model analysis identified a 2- to 3.9-kg procedural weight, increased pulmonary artery pressure, and window-type or tubular ductal morphologies as independent predictors of the composite outcome. Based on propensity score matching analysis, 2- to 3.9-kg infants had a risk ratio of 2.19 (95%CI, 1.25-3.83) for experiencing the composite outcome, compared with 4- to 5.9-kg infants.

Conclusions: Transcatheter PDA closure in 2- to 6-kg infants was feasible in most patients. Procedural failure or major adverse events occurred in 14% and several independent risk factors were identified, including the 2- to 3.9-kg weight range identified as a higher-risk subgroup. These findings may improve risk stratification and the decision-making process.

Keywords: Bajo peso al nacer; Cardiac catheterization; Cardiopatía congénita; Cateterismo cardiaco; Congenital heart disease; Ductus arterioso; Ductus arteriosus; Infant; Lactante; Low birth weight; Patent; Persistente.