Strong Heart and Vascular Center
Heart Conditions
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
This defect is common in premature babies, but rare in full-term babies. Before birth, blood flows freely between the pulmonary artery and the aorta. Shortly after birth, this opening should close. When this does not happen, blood flows backwards into the lungs.
Symptoms of PDA
Symptoms may occur within hours of birth, but may not appear until later in the first few months of life. Symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Slow growth
- Susceptible to pneumonia
- Shortness of breath.
Treatment Options
In some cases, no treatment is required. If the defect is severe enough to require repair, the surgeon closes the duct by tying it, restoring normal circulation.
Neonatal/Congenital Heart Surgery
Back to Congenital Heart Disease