[Multicenter pediatric therapeutic interventional heart catheterization 1996-1998].

The aim of the study is to evaluate choice, efficacy and safety of transcatheter therapy in patients (pts) with congenital heart disease which has been performed in Europe on pts from the Paediatric Clinic of Sarajevo. From January 1996 to August 1998 out of 20 transcatheter therapeutic interventions, 5 have been done in pts whose congenital heart lesions: ductus arteriosus persistence (DAP), atrial septal defect (ASD), pulmonary artery valve stenosis (PS), aortic valve stenosis (AS), were diagnosed in first year of life. Pts were followed 11 months post interventions (the longest period of follow-up 19 months). All pts are well and asymptomatic. DAP closure has been done using "coil" devices in 2 pts (in Italy and Monaco) age 5 and 7.5 years. Duct diameter was 3.5 mm and 4 mm with percent of success within 24 hrs of 100%. With PW Doppler no residual ductual shunt has been proven. Transcatheter closure of ASD type secundum diameter 9 mm, using the "amplatz" device has been performed in Germany. No residual shunt has been proven by echocardiography. Balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty successfully was done in 1 pt in Austria age 3/12 with normal flow of right ventricle outflow tract post intervention. Balloon aortic valvuloplasty was performed in Sweden in neonate with decrease of pressure gradient of AS for 70%. Using Pencil Doppler, 8/12 post intervention in that pt restenosis occurred. The therapeutic catheterizational technique has been successful in alternating surgical approach to resolve congenital heart disease. With further development of catheter systems, techniques and longer periods of follow-up, possibilities of simpler, faster, safer and more efficient solvation of cardiac lesions will brightening up the future of paediatric interventional catheterisation.