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Back to Cardiovascular Diseases
Patent ductus arteriosus
This is a condition in which there is persistant
patency of the ductus arteriosus. The ductus is a direct connection between
the aorta and the pulmonary artery which is present and functional during
fetal life but which is unnecessary once air-breathing begins. Its patency
is normally obliterated by the constriction resulting from the inhibition
of prostaglandins. This condition is common in rubella infection and high
altitudes or prematurity.
The hemodynamic effects are similar to aortic incompetence.
In cases complicated with Eisenmenger's syndrome there is reversal of
the shunt with consequent differential cyanosis.
Treatment
Treatment is always to close the patency. This may
be attempted with indomethacin in premature infants. Surgery is delayed
in infective endocarditis. It is contraindicated if the pulmonary vascular
resistance exceeds 70% of the systemic resistance.
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