Initial experience with the 3.3 Fr Mongoose(®) pigtail catheter for aortic angiography during patent ductus arteriosus closure in small patients

BACKGROUND: Smaller femoral arterial sheaths may be associated with fewer vascular complications. The 3.3 Fr Mongoose(®) Pediavascular pigtail catheter is a catheter that allows higher flow rates, potentially resulting in improved angiographic quality. We reviewed our experience with this small catheter during patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Review of patients ≤20 kg in whom the Mongoose(®) catheter was used during PDA closure from 12/13 to 4/15. Angiographic efficacy and procedural details were compared to ten 4 Fr catheter cases. Comparisons were performed using Mann–Whitney U-test; P < 0.05 was statistically significant. RESULTS: Twelve (9 female) patients were catheterized with a 3.3 Fr Mongoose(®). Median weight 10.5 kg (range 6.4–18.2), height 81 cm (range 37–111), and body surface area (BSA) 0.47 m(2) (range 0.33–0.75) were similar to ten patients (3 females) in the 4 Fr control group (P = NS); median weight 9.9 kg (range 6–16.8), height 80 cm (range 64–102), and BSA 0.46 m2 (range 0.31–0.74). Angiographic quality was subjectively adequate with both with no difference in the median pixel density between the two techniques (3.3 Fr: 76.7 [range 33.5–90] and 4 Fr: [70; 38–102]; P = NS). Contrast used was similar between the groups (3.3 Fr: median 4.2 ml/kg and 4 Fr: 4.9 ml/kg; P = NS). Median radiation dose was similar in the two groups (3.3 Fr: 28.1 mGy [range 17.2–38] and 4 Fr: 38 mGy [range 20.4–58.5]; P = NS). All ducts were closed at latest follow-up (P = NS). No complications were encountered. CONCLUSIONS: The 3.3 Fr Mongoose(®) allowed similar angiography to the 4 Fr pigtail catheter, allowing safe and effective transcatheter PDA closure in small children.