Ductal-Dependent
Describing congenital heart lesions where systemic or pulmonary blood flow critically depends on patency of the ductus arteriosus.
Full Definition
Ductal-dependent refers to congenital heart lesions where adequate systemic or pulmonary circulation critically depends on maintaining patency of the ductus arteriosus. These conditions include ductal-dependent systemic circulation (such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome or critical aortic stenosis) where systemic perfusion relies on ductal flow, and ductal-dependent pulmonary circulation (such as pulmonary atresia or critical pulmonary stenosis) where pulmonary blood flow depends on ductal patency. Recognition of ductal-dependent physiology is crucial for neonatal management, as ductal constriction can lead to cardiovascular collapse. Prostaglandin E1 infusion is typically required to maintain ductal patency until surgical intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate; specify systemic vs. pulmonary dependence when clinically relevant.
In Context
- "The neonate was diagnosed with ductal-dependent pulmonary circulation requiring immediate PGE infusion." — Emergency neonatal consultation
- "Echocardiography confirmed ductal-dependent systemic flow in this case of interrupted aortic arch." — Neonatal echocardiography report