How transesophageal ultrasound helps close heart defects in dogs

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Appropriate device selection for transcatheter occlusion of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is essential to procedural success. OBJECTIVES: To determine if transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) influences device selection for PDA occlusion and to report benefits, limitations, and complications associated with TEE. ANIMALS: Twenty-two client-owned dogs with left-to-right shunting PDA. METHODS: PDA dimensions were obtained via transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and then TEE followed by angiography. Based solely on information from TTE and angiography, an initial device type and size were selected. After initial device selection, TEE measurements were disclosed and changes in device selection were recorded. After device release, angiography, TEE, or both were performed to assess occlusion. RESULTS: An Amplatz canine duct occluder (ACDO) was securely positioned and released in 21 dogs and an embolization coil was deployed in 1 dog. Based on TEE evaluation, initial selected device type was unchanged but ACDO size was changed in 3 dogs. TEE was utilized throughout the procedure allowing real time visualization of device deployment, release and assessment of closure in 17 dogs. No complications occurred related to TEE. Complete PDA closure was achieved in all dogs. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: TEE provided anatomic information regarding PDA morphology that closely approximated angiographic ductal dimensions while aiding in device deployment, release and confirmation of closure. We conclude that TEE provides complementary anatomical and intraprocedural information and is well tolerated in dogs.