Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is one of the most common congenital heart defects occurring in some babies soon after birth. Normally, the fetus blood circulation includes a connection between the aorta and the pulmonary artery via a blood vessel known as the ductus arteriosus. After birth, the circulation matures by closing the ductus arteriosus within few days. If the ductus arteriosus remains open (patent), the blood will flow directly from the aorta into the pulmonary artery causing a strain on the heart and increase the blood pressure in the lung arteries. The incidence of PDA is estimated to be 1:2000 full term infants; however, the rate is higher in premature babies.
Clinical signs include failure to gain weight, frequent chest infections, heavy breathing during mild physical exertion, congestive heart failure, and pulmonary edema, however, many patients remain asymptomatic. Initial diagnosis is made by detecting the characteristic heart murmur and this can be supported by chest X-ray, echocardiograph, and ECG.
Treatment depends on the size of PDA, the symptoms, and pregnancy period. PDA has shown self correction in some cases. Preterm infants with PDA will receive certain medication to close the ductus arteriosus. On the other hand, if the preterm infant doesn't respond to the medication and in the case of full term infant, surgery will be the effective option.