Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

Overview

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is a congenital heart condition in which a blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus fails to close after birth. This vessel normally connects the aorta and pulmonary artery in the fetus and closes shortly after birth.

When it remains open (patent), it allows abnormal blood flow between these arteries, increasing the workload on the heart and lungs. If left untreated, PDA can lead to complications such as heart enlargement and pulmonary hypertension.

At Moolchand Hospital, a leading multi super speciality hospital in Delhi, patients receive expert care for congenital and structural heart conditions. Recognised as a trusted heart hospital in Delhi and a preferred hospital in Lajpat Nagar Delhi, Moolchand provides advanced diagnosis and treatment for PDA.

What is Patent Ductus Arteriosus?

The ductus arteriosus is a normal blood vessel present during fetal development that allows blood to bypass the lungs. After birth, this vessel usually closes within a few days.

In PDA, this vessel remains open, causing oxygen-rich blood from the aorta to mix with oxygen-poor blood in the pulmonary artery. This abnormal circulation can strain the heart and lungs over time.

Symptoms of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Symptoms depend on the size of the PDA and the patient’s age.

In infants:

• Rapid breathing
• Poor feeding
• Slow growth
• Excessive sweating

In older children or adults:

• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Heart murmur
• Frequent respiratory infections

Small PDAs may not cause noticeable symptoms.

Causes of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

PDA is a congenital condition, meaning it is present at birth. The exact cause is often unknown, but possible factors include:

• Premature birth
• Genetic conditions
• Maternal infections during pregnancy
• Birth at high altitude

Risk Factors

Certain factors may increase the risk of PDA:

• Premature infants
• Family history of congenital heart disease
• Female gender
• Maternal illness during pregnancy

When Should You See a Doctor?

Consult a doctor if your child or you experience:

• Difficulty breathing
• Poor feeding or growth in infants
• Persistent fatigue
• Frequent chest infections

Early diagnosis helps prevent complications.

Diagnosis of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Doctors may use the following tests:

• Echocardiography (primary diagnostic test)
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Chest X-ray
• Cardiac catheterization

At Moolchand Hospital Delhi, advanced cardiac imaging ensures accurate evaluation of PDA and treatment planning.

Treatment Options for Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Treatment depends on the size of the PDA and symptoms.

1. Monitoring

Small PDAs may close on their own, especially in infants.

2. Medications

In premature babies, medications may help close the ductus arteriosus.

3. Minimally Invasive PDA Closure

A catheter-based procedure is used to place a device or coil to close the duct.

4. Surgical Closure

In some cases, surgery may be required to close the PDA.

At Moolchand Hospital, one of the best cardiac hospitals in Delhi, advanced minimally invasive techniques ensure safe and effective treatment.

Complications of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

If untreated, PDA may lead to:

• Pulmonary hypertension
• Heart failure
• Increased risk of infection (endocarditis)
• Poor growth in infants

Timely treatment significantly improves outcomes.

Prevention and Lifestyle Care

While PDA cannot always be prevented, good care includes:

• Regular pediatric check-ups
• Early diagnosis and monitoring
• Following medical advice for congenital heart conditions

Why Choose Moolchand Hospital?

Patients choose Moolchand Hospital Lajpat Nagar for heart care because of:

• Experienced cardiologists and pediatric specialists
• Advanced cardiac imaging and diagnostics
• Minimally invasive and surgical treatment options
• Comprehensive cardiac care under one roof
• Trusted legacy as a leading private hospital in Delhi

For families searching for a hospital near Lajpat Nagar or the best hospital in Delhi, Moolchand offers expert care with compassion and precision.