Recanalization of arterial duct is feasible, effective and its potential risks are treatable.

Background: Recanalization of arterial duct (AD) is rarely needed.

Objective: The aim of this study is to report our experience regarding the feasibility and effectiveness of arterial duct recanalization in three infants and review the relevant literature.

Methods And Results: We report on three patients with decreased pulmonary blood flow after initial palliation. The first patient had pulmonary atresia (PA) and an intact ventricular septum. He needed recanalization of the AD after pulmonary valve perforation and dilatation. The second patient had PA and ventricular septal defect (VSD). His AD originated from the left subclavian artery. He required AD recanalization after palliation with a central shunt and clipping of the duct. During intervention he developed a thrombus in the stent, which was treated successfully using thrombolytic treatment. The third patient had PA and VSD. The arterial duct originated from the left subclavian artery and was recanalized after spontaneous closure despite prostaglandin infusion. During the procedure the patient had severe desaturation and bradycardia requiring resuscitation fortwo minutes. All infants had successful arterial duct recanalization and stenting. Additionally, they were clinically stable during follow-up.

Conclusion: Arterial duct recanalization and stenting is a feasible and effective procedure in selected cases, and its risks are treatable. Long-term studies are required.