SCAI Position Statement on Transcatheter Occlusion of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Premature Infants

Historically, pharmacotherapy and surgical ligation have been the primary treatments for occlusion of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), but recent advancements have led to the US Food and Drug Administration approval of the first transcatheter PDA occlusion device for low birth weight infants in 2019. Although short-term outcomes have been encouraging, successful outcomes are highly dependent on proper patient selection, awareness of key procedural considerations, appropriately trained operators, and institutions meeting a standard of required infrastructural requirements. A multidisciplinary approach involving neonatologists and cardiologists is beneficial, as well as shared decision-making with the patient’s family. This position statement from the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions provides comprehensive suggestions to optimize the safety and efficacy of transcatheter PDA occlusion in premature infants, aiming to improve long-term outcomes in this vulnerable population.