Low-profile KA microplug set for transarterial occlusion of patent ductus arteriosus in a small dog: First experience in interventional cardiology.

Abstract

Background: Cardiologists occlud most patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) defects in dogs using the Amplatz^® canine duct occluder via a transarterial approach. However, this approach can be problematic in small dogs due to their small femoral artery diameters. In such cases, cardiologists have opted for lower profile devices or use coils or vascular plugs deployed using a more challenging transvenous approach.

Case description: The present report describes a 1-year-old, 6 kg male Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a small PDA, which was successfully occluded using the Micro Plug Set (KA Medical, Minneapolis, MN) via a transarterial approach.

Conclusion: This is the first case report in medicine of PDA closure with a KA Micro Plug Set via transarterial approach. This approach, which has been described for PDA closure in a few dozen premature human infants, could be considered as a minimally invasive PDA closure in small dogs by using a transarterial approach. Furthermore, in pediatric cardiology, the use of the device has been described only via a transvenous approach. The information from this case report could inspire a different and simpler approach to human medicine.