Conditions & Treatments
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Patent ductus arteriosus

Disease Information

Overview

Patent ductus arteriosus is a congenital heart condition in which the ductus, a small opening or pathway between the pulmonary and aortic valves, remains open or patent. In most cases, the ductus closes within a day after birth. However, in patent ductus arteriosus, the ductus remains open, causing blood to mix between the two valves.

also known as PDA
sixth most common congenital heart defect
occurs twice as often in girls as in boys
if left untreated, can lead to a condition called pulmonary hypertension
surgery or cardiac catheterization common treatments for PDAs that don’t close on their own

Transitioning from pediatric to adult care
More than 9 million children in the United States are living with a chronic illness. Every year, 500,000 of these children turn 18. As they join their fellow adolescents in struggling to achieve optimal independence, they also face a serious issue they may not be prepared for: the transition of their medical care. Read Children’s tips for helping kids – and their families – make this key transition.

Transitioning from pediatric to adult care

More than 9 million children in the United States are living with a chronic illness. Every year, 500,000 of these children turn 18. As they join their fellow adolescents in struggling to achieve optimal independence, they also face a serious issue they may not be prepared for: the transition of their medical care. Read Children’s tips for helping kids – and their families – make this key transition.