Transcatheter closure of the patent ductus arteriosus.

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is one of the most common congenital heart defects. Although surgery is still required in symptomatic neonates, the majority of older infants and children can undergo safe and effective transcatheter device closure on an out-patient basis. First described in 1967, over the past four decades, numerous devices have been specifically developed for this purpose. This article will review the current status of transcatheter therapy. The experience with each device is detailed and issues and controversies are reviewed.