Untitled Deck Flashcards
What does the ductus arteriosus connect, and what is its purpose in utero?
The ductus arteriosus connects the pulmonary artery with the aorta, allowing blood to bypass the lungs.
When does the ductus arteriosus typically close after birth?
It usually stops functioning within 3 days of birth and closes entirely within the first 3 weeks of life.
What is patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)?
PDA occurs when the ductus arteriosus fails to close after birth.
Which populations are more at risk for PDA?
PDA is more common in premature babies and may be associated with genetic conditions (e.g., Down syndrome) or maternal conditions (e.g., diabetes or rubella).
How does prostaglandin E2 influence the ductus arteriosus during pregnancy and after birth?
Prostaglandin E2 (produced by the placenta) keeps the ductus arteriosus open during pregnancy. After birth, prostaglandin E2 levels fall, resulting in closure.
Describe the blood flow through a PDA and its consequences.
Blood flows from the aorta to the pulmonary artery (left-to-right shunt), increasing pulmonary pressure and causing pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular hypertrophy, and left ventricular hypertrophy.
What are the possible symptoms of a PDA?
Symptoms include shortness of breath, difficulty feeding, poor weight gain, and lower respiratory tract infections.
What type of murmur is associated with a larger PDA?
A continuous crescendo-decrescendo ‘machinery’ murmur heard loudest below the clavicle.
What imaging modality confirms the diagnosis of PDA?
An echocardiogram confirms the diagnosis of PDA.
What medical treatments are used to close a PDA in preterm infants?
Indomethacin, ibuprofen, or paracetamol can be used to inhibit prostaglandins and promote closure.
What are the two main methods for closing a PDA?
Closure can be achieved through endovascular procedures (catheter-based) or open surgery.
What treatments may be required for heart failure in PDA patients?
Diuretics may be used to manage heart failure.
