Do we have to close residual patent ductus arteriosus after surgery or transcatheter intervention?

Abstract

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), defined as an arterial connection between the pulmonary artery and the aorta, is a common congenital cardiac defect. The connection can be closed surgically or by transcatheter methods. The overall incidence of PDA in infants born prematurely is about 16 times higher than that in full term infants. Preterm infants with symptomatic heart failure secondary to persistent PDA can be treated by surgical ligation or by conservative treatment involving indomethacin or ibuprofen. The latter, more conservative approach, is usually the treatment of choice due to the risks involved with surgical ligation in premature babies.1),2) Transcatheter techniques for PDA closure have been evolving for over 40 years, and most PDAs can be safely closed in the laboratory setting using currently available coils and devices. Transcatheter closure of the ductus has been effective, with shorter hospital stay and lower cost compared to surgical closure.2),3)