Patent ductus arteriosus

The ductus arteriosus is a vascular fetal structure that usually closes in the first 48 hours after birth; a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) occurs when it fails to close.

Persistence of the ductus arteriosus can result in heart failure, increased pulmonary pressures, and endarteritis.

The incidence and sequelae of a PDA are more significant in premature infants than infants born at full-term.

Clinical history and presentation can vary significantly depending on age of the child and the size of the ductus. Patients may be entirely asymptomatic or have signs and symptoms of heart failure and haemodynamic instability.

Treatment options vary depending on the age of the patient and the size of the ductus. Practice may vary significantly between institutions.

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) describes the persistence of a fetal vascular structure, known as the ductus arteriosus, after birth. The ductus arteriosus connects the main pulmonary artery to the aorta, allowing blood to bypass the lungs in utero. It usually closes in the first 48 hours of life.[1]Kitterman JA, Edmunds LH Jr, Gregory GA, et al. Patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants, incidence, relation to pulmonary disease and management. N Engl J Med. 1972;287:473-477. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/5048708?tool=bestpractice.com