The ductus arteriosus (Botalli) is a vital blood vessel connection between the pulmonary artery and the aorta during fetal development. After birth, it becomes unnecessary and should close on its own within the first few days of life. If the ductus arteriosus does not close normally, oxygen-rich blood flows from the aorta into the pulmonary artery, causing the left ventricle of the heart to do extra work. This puts a strain on the heart. A large patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) raises the blood pressure in the pulmonary artery.
The ductus arteriosus remains open more often in premature infants, affecting about one in two babies born weighing less than 1,500 grams. In preterm infants, a patent ductus arteriosus can usually be closed with intravenous medication (paracetamol, ibuprofen, or indomethacin) during the first week of life. If the ductus arteriosus does not close with medication, it can be closed either through cardiac catheterization or surgically.
A patent ductus arteriosus causes a characteristic continuous murmur at the upper left edge of the sternum. This heart defect is usually diagnosed and treated early. After correction, the heart is healthy, and the prognosis is normal and age-appropriate.
