Embolisation of Occlusive Devices in 15 Dogs with Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Abstract: Background Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a common canine cardiac defect treated by transcatheter occlusion. Infrequent procedural complications include device embolisation (DE.) In humans, DE is a major complication requiring immediate retrieval. Veterinary guidance is limited; while coil embolisation usually has a good outcome, larger devices such as the ACDO may pose greater risk, and long-term data are scarce. Hypothesis/Objectives Determine the incidence of DE, describe associated clinical signs, and assess long-term outcomes. Secondary aims were to evaluate patient/procedural factors that might increase DE risk. Animals Fifteen dogs with confirmed DE were identified from nine referral hospitals in Europe and North America (2010–2024) via the ACVIM/ECVIM list servers. Methods Collaborators retrospectively completed a standardized questionnaire to obtain relevant clinical and procedural data. Results The overall DE incidence was 1.4% (95% CI 0.8–2.3%). All devices embolised to the pulmonary circulation and were not retrieved. Clinical manifestations included incidental detection in 9/15 dogs, transient intra-operative hypotension in 2/15, and acute respiratory distress in 4/15. PDA closure was ultimately achieved in 12/15 dogs. Of these, eight were alive and well at last follow-up (median 5 years), two died of unrelated causes, and two were lost to follow-up. No patient or procedural factors were associated with increased DE risk. Conclusions and Clinical Importance DE is an infrequent complication of PDA occlusion. Most affected dogs show minimal clinical impact, although some develop acute respiratory distress. When subsequent PDA closure is completed, long-term prognosis is generally favourable despite the embolised device remaining in the pulmonary circulation.