Health Topic

Patent ductus arteriosus

Disease Information

Overview

Patent Ductus ArteriosusPatent 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.

In-Depth  >>