PDA stands for Patent Ductus Arteriosus. PDA is a congenital heart disease, in which a persistent connection is created between the aorta and the pulmonary artery. Symptomatic PDA can be treated with both surgical and non-surgical methods. Surgically, the DA (ductus arteriosus) may be closed by ligation, wherein the DA is manually tied shut, or with intravascular coils or plugs that lead to formation of a thrombus in the DA. Fluid restriction and prostaglandin inhibitors such as indomethacin have also been used in successful non-surgical closure of the DA. This is an especially viable alternative for premature infants.
In certain cases it may be beneficial to a newborn baby to prevent closure of the ductus arteriosus. For example, in transposition of the great vessels a PDA may prolong the child's life until surgical correction is possible. The ductus arteriosus can be induced to remain open by administering prostaglandin analogs such as alprostadil (a prostaglandin E1 analog).
Condition Details :
Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a heart problem that occurs soon after birth in some babies. In PDA, there is an abnormal circulation of blood between two of the major arteries near the heart. Before birth, the two major arteries—the aorta and the pulmonary artery—are normally connected by a blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus, which is an essential part of the fetal circulation. After birth, the vessel is supposed to close within a few days as part of the normal changes occurring in the baby's circulation. In some babies, however, the ductus arteriosus remains open (patent). This opening allows blood to flow directly from the aorta into the pulmonary artery, which can put a strain on the heart and increase the blood pressure in the lung arteries.
